I have returned from Korea, which you know if you've followed my lame-ass blogging attempts on Adventures of the Jade Monkey. I'm still posting photos of my trip there, so keep checking back.
Today (Sunday) I'm catching up on electronic media consumption and production. This means blogging, organizing photos, and catching up Doctor Who and Mad Men. Re: Doctor Who: OH. MY. GOD. Absolutely stunning. Re: Mad Men: That is some awesome writing. Don Draper is so twisted and pathetic that he's somehow almost sexy. Rodger Sterling is hilarious because he represents a pre-P.C. sense of humor. Still to come: Leverage and the last few eps of Night Gallery that I haven't seen. Bizarro and I started watching the entire series back in the winter/early spring. We're planning to do presentations at the next Rod Serling Conference about Night Gallery, so right now we're watching and re-watching eps for research (and for fun).
Tomorrow I will start attending to business as usual... slowly. One thing at a time, beginning with finances and figuring out who I need to call and what I need to put on the agenda for the week. Writing is #1, of course. I have 2 weeks before I have to return to work, so I'm making the most of the time.
I still have some unpacking to do, still laundry to do, and of course I have to have my ankle looked at (I sprained it AGAIN my last week in Korea). Processing my notes and thoughts will be essential before work starts and my brain becomes too filled with other people's work and concerns to develop my own. I did some work on the film while in Korea, which was really wonderful. Now I'm in a better place to start editing once I get a tutorial in Final Cut Pro. A very simple thing I realized: part of my procrastination has been my discomfort with the tech end of it. What a silly thing! I've got a filmmaker friend and colleague who's going to help me with that end of things.
I'm still dealing with some jet lag, though today I'm feeling much better than yesterday. Hopefully tonight I won't wake up at 3:00 a.m. in a cold sweat, totally disoriented, like I have the last 2 nights. It's all good - just a mild transition, that's all. I prepped myself for getting through jet lag via EFT before I even got on the plane. Nothing like pre-emptive EFT!
I'm uploading more photos to Adventures of the Jade Monkey now, so why not head over there and check them out?
Showing posts with label Bizarro. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bizarro. Show all posts
Sunday, August 01, 2010
Monday, May 24, 2010
On the move
Or rather, waiting for a ride. Soooo the '98 Nissan Sentra is once again mocking me with its oldness. Brought the car in this morning for a number of issues. When I go to pick it up tomorrow, I will be slapping another $1000 on the credit card to get it back on the road. This thing is a money pit. I've been saying for weeks that we'll need another car by the end of the year.
And it appears that we'll have one. My in-laws called just today (timing - wow!) to tell us that they're buying their leased car and are wanting to give us their Nissan Pathfinder (which is a '95, granted, but has barely been driven). I'm in awe of the Universe's way of supplying the much-needed things of life.
Just last night, in fact, Bizarro and I decided we'd make time to go visit my in-laws in August after I get back from Korea, before the semester starts up. I guess we'll take a flight or a bus there and drive the Pathfinder home. How slick is that shit?
So for the time being, until tomorrow, I am sans car. My Yoga instructor is being nice enough to give Bizarro and me a ride to and from Yoga tonight. We missed the last 2 weeks, and she is so gung-ho that she'd rather give us rides than miss another week.
Isn't it great when a plan comes together?
And it appears that we'll have one. My in-laws called just today (timing - wow!) to tell us that they're buying their leased car and are wanting to give us their Nissan Pathfinder (which is a '95, granted, but has barely been driven). I'm in awe of the Universe's way of supplying the much-needed things of life.
Just last night, in fact, Bizarro and I decided we'd make time to go visit my in-laws in August after I get back from Korea, before the semester starts up. I guess we'll take a flight or a bus there and drive the Pathfinder home. How slick is that shit?
So for the time being, until tomorrow, I am sans car. My Yoga instructor is being nice enough to give Bizarro and me a ride to and from Yoga tonight. We missed the last 2 weeks, and she is so gung-ho that she'd rather give us rides than miss another week.
Isn't it great when a plan comes together?
Friday, May 21, 2010
A happy ending...
No, not THAT kind of happy ending. Get your mind out of the gutter.
Yesterday morning was a very pleasant few hours with the kitty (I'd nick-named him Spaz). I let him come inside. He mainly stayed near the screen door and watched outside, as cats do. Around 12:30 I realized that I wasn't doing any one any favors by letting him stay here indefinitely, knowing he'd have to leave. So I packed him up in the kitty carry box my neighbor loaned me and brought him over to the SPCA. He was not happy in that little box in the car. His pitiful cries broke my heart. I sobbed the entire time I was at the intake center. I could hear his little cries when they carried him into the back room to his temporary cage. I cried the whole way home. I was a mess. I felt stupid for getting so attached, but really what I felt bad about was thinking the cat felt betrayed and confused. He'd developed a nice life here, and now he was in a cage at the SPCA.
When I got back to the apartment, I ran into my across-the-hall neighbor, and we started talking about the kitty. Turns out HE was hosting the kitty too, at night. I'd wondered where the kitty was sleeping at night since he wasn't on my patio. My neighbor didn't realize it was an orphan kitty; he'd held back from feeding him and taking him in because he figured he belonged to someone. So after the entire story was out, my neighbor realized he could adopt the kitty from the SPCA, after the cat's been neutered and has had his medical check-up and shots. It'll take a week to ten days for the entire process, but then my neighbor can bring home Spaz, who can then come visit us on our patio.
Can I just say that I am astounded how completely sentimental and wrecked I became over a damned kitten. I mean really. Bizarro, too, became attached, though much less so. The kitty was very attached to me. He'd come when I call, follow me around, sit on my lap, etc. I just hope the week in the SPCA doesn't ruin him. He had such a sweet disposition.
Okay, see here I go again! I'm too soft for my own good.
ADDENDUM: Took my neighbor over to the SPCA yesterday. Turns out Spaz is a she-kitty, and is almost a year old, not 5-6 months. Spaz is coming home next Tuesday. My neighbor and I have agreed to be co-parents, tho he gets to deal with the litter box and cat sheddings in winter. WIN-WIN-WIN!
Yesterday morning was a very pleasant few hours with the kitty (I'd nick-named him Spaz). I let him come inside. He mainly stayed near the screen door and watched outside, as cats do. Around 12:30 I realized that I wasn't doing any one any favors by letting him stay here indefinitely, knowing he'd have to leave. So I packed him up in the kitty carry box my neighbor loaned me and brought him over to the SPCA. He was not happy in that little box in the car. His pitiful cries broke my heart. I sobbed the entire time I was at the intake center. I could hear his little cries when they carried him into the back room to his temporary cage. I cried the whole way home. I was a mess. I felt stupid for getting so attached, but really what I felt bad about was thinking the cat felt betrayed and confused. He'd developed a nice life here, and now he was in a cage at the SPCA.
When I got back to the apartment, I ran into my across-the-hall neighbor, and we started talking about the kitty. Turns out HE was hosting the kitty too, at night. I'd wondered where the kitty was sleeping at night since he wasn't on my patio. My neighbor didn't realize it was an orphan kitty; he'd held back from feeding him and taking him in because he figured he belonged to someone. So after the entire story was out, my neighbor realized he could adopt the kitty from the SPCA, after the cat's been neutered and has had his medical check-up and shots. It'll take a week to ten days for the entire process, but then my neighbor can bring home Spaz, who can then come visit us on our patio.
Can I just say that I am astounded how completely sentimental and wrecked I became over a damned kitten. I mean really. Bizarro, too, became attached, though much less so. The kitty was very attached to me. He'd come when I call, follow me around, sit on my lap, etc. I just hope the week in the SPCA doesn't ruin him. He had such a sweet disposition.
Okay, see here I go again! I'm too soft for my own good.
ADDENDUM: Took my neighbor over to the SPCA yesterday. Turns out Spaz is a she-kitty, and is almost a year old, not 5-6 months. Spaz is coming home next Tuesday. My neighbor and I have agreed to be co-parents, tho he gets to deal with the litter box and cat sheddings in winter. WIN-WIN-WIN!
Saturday, April 03, 2010
Doctor Who is BACK!
I grieved over the departure of David Tennant, but now it's time to be wrapped up in the magic again. Tonight Bizarro and I watched Matt Smith's first Doctor Who episode, and I have to say that I am well pleased. Don't worry, I won't post any spoilers, but the new TARDIS design is absolutely awesome, Matt Smith is likable, rascally and mysterious (but not as cute as DT, let's face it). He has yet to find his "edge" but that will come in time, and with the much stronger writing of David Moffat, I am ready to see what happens next. Geronimo!
If you'd like a sneak peak at the new TARDIS design (no story/character spoilers, I promise), have a look at Blogtor Who.
From UK TV listings magazine, courtesy of Blogtor Who.
If you'd like a sneak peak at the new TARDIS design (no story/character spoilers, I promise), have a look at Blogtor Who.
From UK TV listings magazine, courtesy of Blogtor Who.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Stuck...
...and not happy about it. What's a traveler to do?
Of course this is a metaphor rife with life lessons and pithy quotes and Buddhist teachings.
But at the moment I'm talking about actually being stuck in the f'ing airport. I was supposed to take a 6 a.m. flight to Boston, but it was canceled. Not for the reason you're no doubt thinking of. (But Ms. Bizarro, the Nor'easter...) No, I was informed that it was canceled 3 hours before take off for "maintenance." If you're good at math, you can figure out that that meant I received an automated message from U.S. Air at 3 a.m. I then spoke to a representative who booked me on an early afternoon flight through Philly. Okay, well it meant less of a day with JET, my dearest friend who I essentially booked this flight to see.
I finally fell asleep at 6 a.m. Got up around 9:30, made breakfast, took my time, got to the airport in plenty of time, and after I checked in, got through security and got comfy waiting for boarding, the announcement came that the flight was 2 hours delayed. They announced this at 12:15 for a 12:30 boarding time.
And so now...stuck. In the airport with the screaming baby and his very ill mother a couple rows from me. They are a pair, these two hipster parents. I feel a little bad for them, and for the bambino (a toddler, not a real infant). But I also feel bad for me because I was supposed to have been in Boston an hour and a half ago. And I'm here, instead.
So now we've got later connecting flights out of LaGuardia, one of which will hopefully get us to Boston. And I strongarmed the U.S. Air ticket lady to give me a later return flight (Saturday instead of Friday) since I'd lost an entire day thanks to them. They tried to make me pay for it but I raised a mild tsunami and they eventually caved.
This means, however, that some lucky family member o' mine will have to get me to Logan by 6:30 a.m. on Saturday (I hadn't thought that far in advance - with spring breakers coming back to college it's going to be a mad house). Soooo I probably just traded one nightmare for another, right? I hope not. Bizarro and I have plans for our anniversary on Saturday.
This is a whole lot of venting because right now this is my only outlet. But let's take this being stuck thing to a whole...'nother....level. Being stuck is a state of mind. Yes, it's true, I cannot do much about my physical situation. I have options - stick this out and hope to God I eventually reach Boston, or cancel the entire trip and stay home for spring break. Other than that, I'm at the mercy of U.S. Air. I can be angry and indignant and walk around with a cloud over my head (which is tempting, I admit), or try to make the best of an unhappy situation. This is the reality of life in the air. Reality is what it is.
However, being the kind of person who always sees opportunities for optimizing, I would like offer this airport a few pointers:
- more outlets
- food options in the terminal (aside from coffee and lollipops)
- more seating
- more than 2 air carriers (U.S. Air and Continental Express)
That is my constructive criticism. It is much more helpful than a wanton rant.
And I really don't know where or how to end this post. I think I'll just sort of drift off into the ether...
Of course this is a metaphor rife with life lessons and pithy quotes and Buddhist teachings.
But at the moment I'm talking about actually being stuck in the f'ing airport. I was supposed to take a 6 a.m. flight to Boston, but it was canceled. Not for the reason you're no doubt thinking of. (But Ms. Bizarro, the Nor'easter...) No, I was informed that it was canceled 3 hours before take off for "maintenance." If you're good at math, you can figure out that that meant I received an automated message from U.S. Air at 3 a.m. I then spoke to a representative who booked me on an early afternoon flight through Philly. Okay, well it meant less of a day with JET, my dearest friend who I essentially booked this flight to see.
I finally fell asleep at 6 a.m. Got up around 9:30, made breakfast, took my time, got to the airport in plenty of time, and after I checked in, got through security and got comfy waiting for boarding, the announcement came that the flight was 2 hours delayed. They announced this at 12:15 for a 12:30 boarding time.
And so now...stuck. In the airport with the screaming baby and his very ill mother a couple rows from me. They are a pair, these two hipster parents. I feel a little bad for them, and for the bambino (a toddler, not a real infant). But I also feel bad for me because I was supposed to have been in Boston an hour and a half ago. And I'm here, instead.
So now we've got later connecting flights out of LaGuardia, one of which will hopefully get us to Boston. And I strongarmed the U.S. Air ticket lady to give me a later return flight (Saturday instead of Friday) since I'd lost an entire day thanks to them. They tried to make me pay for it but I raised a mild tsunami and they eventually caved.
This means, however, that some lucky family member o' mine will have to get me to Logan by 6:30 a.m. on Saturday (I hadn't thought that far in advance - with spring breakers coming back to college it's going to be a mad house). Soooo I probably just traded one nightmare for another, right? I hope not. Bizarro and I have plans for our anniversary on Saturday.
This is a whole lot of venting because right now this is my only outlet. But let's take this being stuck thing to a whole...'nother....level. Being stuck is a state of mind. Yes, it's true, I cannot do much about my physical situation. I have options - stick this out and hope to God I eventually reach Boston, or cancel the entire trip and stay home for spring break. Other than that, I'm at the mercy of U.S. Air. I can be angry and indignant and walk around with a cloud over my head (which is tempting, I admit), or try to make the best of an unhappy situation. This is the reality of life in the air. Reality is what it is.
However, being the kind of person who always sees opportunities for optimizing, I would like offer this airport a few pointers:
- more outlets
- food options in the terminal (aside from coffee and lollipops)
- more seating
- more than 2 air carriers (U.S. Air and Continental Express)
That is my constructive criticism. It is much more helpful than a wanton rant.
And I really don't know where or how to end this post. I think I'll just sort of drift off into the ether...
Sunday, March 07, 2010
And now a real post
As mentioned earlier, my birthday was this past week. I'm not a big birthday celebration kind of gal, though it's always nice to do something fun. I usually plan my own birthday celebrations. The way I see things, it ceased being someone else's responsibility to plan my birthday after I turned 21. I'm not so keen on b-day cards because quite honestly it's a waste of paper and I just end up recycling them. It's fine to receive them and I always appreciate the thought, but the main thing is, it's not what makes my birthday special. Spending it with cool people is what makes it special, without the absurdity of "it's my birthday therefore I am queen."
This year Bizarro and I went with a couple friends of ours on the Seneca Lake wine trail. We hit about 6 wineries but paced ourselves so we could actually enjoy the wines and soak up the wine knowledge dropped on us by the somaliers. We even hit up Hazlitt, which was to us the bottom of the barrel (get it?) when it came to class, wine, and atmosphere. Our fave was Castel Grisch, followed closely by Red Newt. Our friends also treated us to a lovely lunch at Glenora winery as a birthday/ upcoming 5th wedding anniversary celebration. The day was awesomesauce - sunny, funny & boozy.
Heading now into the last week before spring break. I expect it will be crazy busy in the writing center where I tutor, and I've already heard whining from students with work due before and after the break. Honestly, I'm just getting a little too old for that nonsense. I really want to tell them to cram it and deal with it because if they think THIS is bad, just wait until six months after graduation when the first student loan payment is due.
Spending spring break in Boston with my fam and friends. Excited to see folks and spend St. Patty's day with Rrrrache (we have a long history of St. Patty's Day together). My main concern, though, is spending some QT with JET, who is going through something of a hard time right now.
Once I get there (flying) I'm going to rent an car and will hit the beach for some writing time every day. If I had a few more bucks to spare, I'd stay overnight at the hotel on the beach where I stayed last summer, but this time around I'm spending more on travel. It's all good. My brother and his wife will just have to put up with me. Heh.
Time to wind down the night and get a good sleep in before the onslaught of the week.
This year Bizarro and I went with a couple friends of ours on the Seneca Lake wine trail. We hit about 6 wineries but paced ourselves so we could actually enjoy the wines and soak up the wine knowledge dropped on us by the somaliers. We even hit up Hazlitt, which was to us the bottom of the barrel (get it?) when it came to class, wine, and atmosphere. Our fave was Castel Grisch, followed closely by Red Newt. Our friends also treated us to a lovely lunch at Glenora winery as a birthday/ upcoming 5th wedding anniversary celebration. The day was awesomesauce - sunny, funny & boozy.
Heading now into the last week before spring break. I expect it will be crazy busy in the writing center where I tutor, and I've already heard whining from students with work due before and after the break. Honestly, I'm just getting a little too old for that nonsense. I really want to tell them to cram it and deal with it because if they think THIS is bad, just wait until six months after graduation when the first student loan payment is due.
Spending spring break in Boston with my fam and friends. Excited to see folks and spend St. Patty's day with Rrrrache (we have a long history of St. Patty's Day together). My main concern, though, is spending some QT with JET, who is going through something of a hard time right now.
Once I get there (flying) I'm going to rent an car and will hit the beach for some writing time every day. If I had a few more bucks to spare, I'd stay overnight at the hotel on the beach where I stayed last summer, but this time around I'm spending more on travel. It's all good. My brother and his wife will just have to put up with me. Heh.
Time to wind down the night and get a good sleep in before the onslaught of the week.
Monday, February 08, 2010
On the way.
It's February, which means March is almost here. March has many good things. It has my birthday, my wedding anniversary with Bizarro (5 years), and Spring Break, for which I am headed to the land of my birthing (South Shore of Boston).
The new schedule is starting to feel a little more sane. I am not worried about it at this point. I am happy as a clam to have all this work and to have a plan for summer (teach screenwriting in Korea).
The new schedule is starting to feel a little more sane. I am not worried about it at this point. I am happy as a clam to have all this work and to have a plan for summer (teach screenwriting in Korea).
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Send in the clowns..er, 2010.
Winding down 2009, which has been a year of great transformation, challenges, some new opportunities, and new friendships. I've renewed my interest (read: obsession) with the work of Rod Serling, returned to my roots in sci fi writing, and forged a new partnership with my husband. It has also held the deepest sorrow I could ever have imagined, with a Momazoo-shaped hole in my life. One thing is for certain; I am ready to say good-bye to 2009, but I choose to usher it out with a smile and a hearty "thank you" for the many and myriad opportunities to practice Dharma.
I welcome 2010, the first year of the second decade of the 21st century, with a child-like enthusiasm, a feeling of humble dedication towards making the most out of every opportunity that comes my way. In that spirit, I'm doing away with lists of intentions or resolutions. There is only this one: To celebrate and make the most of every moment of this precious human birth. No wasted time, no wasted opportunities, no matter how small. Every moment to be lived with intention, no matter what the intention, rather than passively letting time and life flow past. This means making choices in all things, from what script to develop, to what to wear to work, to how I eat, to how much time is spent in front of the TV, to what time to get up in the morning, to meditating at my shrine, to what ways I can make City on the Edge of Forever work for me, instead of allowing myself to be depressed and defeated by it.
I wish everyone a healthy new year with plenty of opportunity and intentions of your own. Thank you for reading my burblings on Fred In The Can. Be safe tonight, all you partiers.
I welcome 2010, the first year of the second decade of the 21st century, with a child-like enthusiasm, a feeling of humble dedication towards making the most out of every opportunity that comes my way. In that spirit, I'm doing away with lists of intentions or resolutions. There is only this one: To celebrate and make the most of every moment of this precious human birth. No wasted time, no wasted opportunities, no matter how small. Every moment to be lived with intention, no matter what the intention, rather than passively letting time and life flow past. This means making choices in all things, from what script to develop, to what to wear to work, to how I eat, to how much time is spent in front of the TV, to what time to get up in the morning, to meditating at my shrine, to what ways I can make City on the Edge of Forever work for me, instead of allowing myself to be depressed and defeated by it.
I wish everyone a healthy new year with plenty of opportunity and intentions of your own. Thank you for reading my burblings on Fred In The Can. Be safe tonight, all you partiers.
Sunday, November 08, 2009
I know you
Where have the days gone? Busy busy makin' wax over here.
This past weekend went to Astronomicon 11 Sci Fi Convention in Rochacha, where I hobnobbed with awesome writers and intelligent, sensitive human beings (at least, I think they were human). Some names of note: Daniel A. Rabuzzi, Robert J. Sawyer (of FlashForward fame), David DeGraff, and Nancy Kress. Bizarro also made some good connections. We were both incredibly pleased with ourselves, the panels, and the weekend in general. It was up in the 60s (because you know how important it is to me not to freeze my knees), and we enjoyed staying with friends Tim & Leigh, going to eat at Arigato Japanese Steakhouse, subs at DiBella's for lunch today, and of course, Abbot's Frozen Custard.
Damn good thing I went back to my work-out regime last week. I'll need to keep on that after the custard. Bizarro has joined my Yoga class on Monday nights, which is great because we can mutually bolster our drive to get to class even on a night of inclement weather or just plain laziness. Water aerobics was delightful last week, too. Man I could feel it in my hips, though. We did "water ballet," as in, barre work in the water, not THIS:
I'm feeling great about the week to come. Really motivated after this con (and after the Serling Conference, which is still providing me with a boatload of inspiration). I have a phone meeting with a manager on Wednesday, so I'm going to spend some time getting ready for that over the next couple days. This means putting off grading until later in the week. They'll just have to wait.
Oh - and to close out the story of the Plagiarizing Student, he just trailed off somewhere and never came back to confront me, other than a one-(grammatically incorrect) sentence email. I am enjoying the remaining 14 students I have in that class, after the attrition of 5 non-hackers. Now that the tension has been broken with Mr. Plagiarism Is My Middle Name, my students and I can focus. Still, I am really looking forward to my new position as Adjunct Writing Tutor come January.
I am also very pleased to report that I've made it a point to cultivate other friendships here in the City on the Edge of Forever. I was feeling a bit bereft of nearby friendly faces there for awhile, but I am always on the mend. I miss PMP like crazy, but I know that when I'm out in Boston, we'll be able to catch up and do our usual things. The other two folks who pretty much disappeared off the face of the earth are doing other things, and I wish them both well, but I'm done feeling bad for anything.
Rock on with my highly caffeinated self! I suppose I need to wind down for the evening, watch MadMen's season finale, and go to sleep.
P.S. This week's Vladurday wasn't very funny, so I'm skipping it in favor of other amusements.
This past weekend went to Astronomicon 11 Sci Fi Convention in Rochacha, where I hobnobbed with awesome writers and intelligent, sensitive human beings (at least, I think they were human). Some names of note: Daniel A. Rabuzzi, Robert J. Sawyer (of FlashForward fame), David DeGraff, and Nancy Kress. Bizarro also made some good connections. We were both incredibly pleased with ourselves, the panels, and the weekend in general. It was up in the 60s (because you know how important it is to me not to freeze my knees), and we enjoyed staying with friends Tim & Leigh, going to eat at Arigato Japanese Steakhouse, subs at DiBella's for lunch today, and of course, Abbot's Frozen Custard.
Damn good thing I went back to my work-out regime last week. I'll need to keep on that after the custard. Bizarro has joined my Yoga class on Monday nights, which is great because we can mutually bolster our drive to get to class even on a night of inclement weather or just plain laziness. Water aerobics was delightful last week, too. Man I could feel it in my hips, though. We did "water ballet," as in, barre work in the water, not THIS:
I'm feeling great about the week to come. Really motivated after this con (and after the Serling Conference, which is still providing me with a boatload of inspiration). I have a phone meeting with a manager on Wednesday, so I'm going to spend some time getting ready for that over the next couple days. This means putting off grading until later in the week. They'll just have to wait.
Oh - and to close out the story of the Plagiarizing Student, he just trailed off somewhere and never came back to confront me, other than a one-(grammatically incorrect) sentence email. I am enjoying the remaining 14 students I have in that class, after the attrition of 5 non-hackers. Now that the tension has been broken with Mr. Plagiarism Is My Middle Name, my students and I can focus. Still, I am really looking forward to my new position as Adjunct Writing Tutor come January.
I am also very pleased to report that I've made it a point to cultivate other friendships here in the City on the Edge of Forever. I was feeling a bit bereft of nearby friendly faces there for awhile, but I am always on the mend. I miss PMP like crazy, but I know that when I'm out in Boston, we'll be able to catch up and do our usual things. The other two folks who pretty much disappeared off the face of the earth are doing other things, and I wish them both well, but I'm done feeling bad for anything.
Rock on with my highly caffeinated self! I suppose I need to wind down for the evening, watch MadMen's season finale, and go to sleep.
P.S. This week's Vladurday wasn't very funny, so I'm skipping it in favor of other amusements.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Decided to stay in this weekend, after all. Still feel like I'm fighting off sick and really can't stand a relapse. Last night Bizarro and I went to see "Paranormal Activity" instead of going out of town to that party. My advice is to wait until this movie comes out on Netflix.
It's a lo-budget, indie horror movie, and I commend the filmmakers for making the most of their budget with no CGI, singular set, and only two characters. But the script was lacking - the first 45 minutes dragged, and there were character actions that made no sense based on what the film established in the first half hour. As a result, I couldn't suspend disbelief enough to be scared. For sure there were a couple moments to jump, including the end, but this felt like a short film that was dragged out to be an hour and a half simply to find theatrical distribution. I give it 3 out of 5 stars.
We've been watching eps of Night Gallery on Hulu as we start preparing for conference presentations two years hence on Rod Serling's "bastard step-child" TV series. Poor Night Gallery, always taking second billing to Twilight Zone.
I've spent a good deal of my time writing this weekend, in protest of last week, which sucked moss-covered boulders. I have yet to see the end of the Plagiarizing Student story this coming week, I'm sure. I am really so over that class; I'll be delighted never to teach it again.
Here's hoping for a solid week of inspiration, seeing the glass half full, and making things happen.
It's a lo-budget, indie horror movie, and I commend the filmmakers for making the most of their budget with no CGI, singular set, and only two characters. But the script was lacking - the first 45 minutes dragged, and there were character actions that made no sense based on what the film established in the first half hour. As a result, I couldn't suspend disbelief enough to be scared. For sure there were a couple moments to jump, including the end, but this felt like a short film that was dragged out to be an hour and a half simply to find theatrical distribution. I give it 3 out of 5 stars.
We've been watching eps of Night Gallery on Hulu as we start preparing for conference presentations two years hence on Rod Serling's "bastard step-child" TV series. Poor Night Gallery, always taking second billing to Twilight Zone.
I've spent a good deal of my time writing this weekend, in protest of last week, which sucked moss-covered boulders. I have yet to see the end of the Plagiarizing Student story this coming week, I'm sure. I am really so over that class; I'll be delighted never to teach it again.
Here's hoping for a solid week of inspiration, seeing the glass half full, and making things happen.
Sunday, October 04, 2009
A fine weekend in the Twilight Zone
Without giving away too much that will spoil the anonymous fun here, suffice it to say that Bizarro and I attended a conference this weekend that inspired, rejuvenated and impressed us both. Of special note is meeting our new friend from U.K., DREW. Drew did a fabulous presentation at the conference, and in general impressed us both with his successful blend of scholarship and unabashed geekery. We realized after meeting him that we were, indeed, in the right place.
Drew's plane should be lifting off just about now on the journey home, so I'm wishing him safe travels. For sure we'll be seeing him again - either our visit to England or at the very latest, the next conference we all attend.
By the way, it's very hard to keep this all sanitized to maintain what anonymity there is here. I apologize for all the vague references and obfuscation.
Drew's plane should be lifting off just about now on the journey home, so I'm wishing him safe travels. For sure we'll be seeing him again - either our visit to England or at the very latest, the next conference we all attend.
By the way, it's very hard to keep this all sanitized to maintain what anonymity there is here. I apologize for all the vague references and obfuscation.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
The sea of love
I've been swimming every day this week - either the pool or the lake. My arms and shoulders know it; I feel great!
Yesterday I tried to go swimming at the pool but there was no lifeguard on duty. Because we had showers earlier in the day, they thought it was fine to send the lifeguard home and save some bucks, apparently. Whatever. I stopped at the apartment for my car keys and headed out to the lake beach that is not too far from civilization (the suburbs). I was the only swimmer there, with a new storm cell rolling in. The lifeguard and his buddy looked dubious. I swam out and got a couple playful laps in before it started raining and the wind whipped up. There was no lightning and thunder, and I think I could have stayed in the water, but I didn't want to keep the lifeguard out there in the elements just so I could have a mystical experience swimming in the lake during a rain storm.
By the time I got out, there were whitecaps forming. I drove to another area of the park so that I could sit and watch the water. In the right conditions even a Finger Lake seems to have a personality.
Bizarro and I figure we'll be here for another three years or so; he's going to go for his M.S. and I'm just going to write and work my ass off so that we can build a brighter future. This means making best friends with the Finger Lake that's practically in our backyard. I want to know everything there is to know about the lake so that I can write some kind of crazy memoir about my life on the lake and the mystical path of awakening that these waters have afforded me.
Shoot, what else is there to do in the City on the Edge of Forever?
Yesterday I tried to go swimming at the pool but there was no lifeguard on duty. Because we had showers earlier in the day, they thought it was fine to send the lifeguard home and save some bucks, apparently. Whatever. I stopped at the apartment for my car keys and headed out to the lake beach that is not too far from civilization (the suburbs). I was the only swimmer there, with a new storm cell rolling in. The lifeguard and his buddy looked dubious. I swam out and got a couple playful laps in before it started raining and the wind whipped up. There was no lightning and thunder, and I think I could have stayed in the water, but I didn't want to keep the lifeguard out there in the elements just so I could have a mystical experience swimming in the lake during a rain storm.
By the time I got out, there were whitecaps forming. I drove to another area of the park so that I could sit and watch the water. In the right conditions even a Finger Lake seems to have a personality.
Bizarro and I figure we'll be here for another three years or so; he's going to go for his M.S. and I'm just going to write and work my ass off so that we can build a brighter future. This means making best friends with the Finger Lake that's practically in our backyard. I want to know everything there is to know about the lake so that I can write some kind of crazy memoir about my life on the lake and the mystical path of awakening that these waters have afforded me.
Shoot, what else is there to do in the City on the Edge of Forever?
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
The Summer of 2009
Well ladies and germs, the summer is rapidly closing. Another week and 2 days and it's back in the classroom. I have a full teaching load this semester: 2 sections of intro to screenwriting at the Other School On the Hill, and one section of English 99 (developmental writing at the paragraph level) at the community college. For these gigs I am grateful. Now I'm trying to cram as much summer into the coming week and 2 days as possible. Summer weather is finally here, so swimming and patio grilling are required activities (though there are t'storms coming but whatever, as long as it's hot).
As you know, this was not the summer I'd planned. I ended up not teaching at all, and instead worked as a transcriptionist, tutor, and house keeper for the Catlic' Chorch, scrubbing the priests' terlets and washing their undies. (My sister-in-law asked whether the skid marks in a priest's undies are in the form of a crucifix. This is why I love my sister-in-law.)
So, no, not what I'd expected but the truth is that in true form, the Universe provided just what I needed. In fact our money was very tight this summer, but it forced us to be more mindful of our spending, and helped us to come together for the betterment of our household. Tracking expenses and keeping more in tune with our financial situation has been good for us both, and for our marriage.
The work I did at the rectory was actually quite easy, and since I was alone and autonomous, I had plenty of opportunity to manage my time as I saw fit, and I believe that the physical nature of the work was good for me. I tend to get stuck up here (points to head) and that's not always a good thing.
The transcription work was just fine, and it might even be useful in the future to say that I am familiar with chemical notations (who knows what kind of technical writing I might fall into at some point).
The tutoring is always fun and keeps me on the ESL map for my C.V.
Aside from my work, I had plenty of time for writing, and I was, I must say, rather prolific. I am just about finished with Sentinel, have started a new project, and most thrilling of all, I met a producer/filmmaker from L.A. who is producing a short script of mine, and who has connections that could really help me out.
I didn't get to go windsurfing, but I did spend a day at the Nor'easter Surf Shop in Scituate, Mass. and took excellent notes for my surf-related T.V. pilot. I also made a great connection for surfing lessons when I am able to give that a whirl. And the surfing season isn't over in September, so there's still a chance I could get a long weekend in and get a surfing lesson! (I'm talking surfing, not windsurfing, to be clear on that.)
Despite our financial hardship, I found a way with the help of friends to attend the Live Adventure this year (the annual live action role playing weekend I've been part of since 1991). That was a magical, wonderful, fun (if hotter than hell) weekend of beloved friends, creative imagination, camping, and music. I am so grateful!
This summer gave me ample time and opportunity to work through my grief, and I managed two trips to Massachusetts, one with Bizarro in tow, which has been extremely beneficial in my healing process. I was able to spend some QT with my beloved nephew and his family, my Big Bro, PMP, JET, Rachee and a couple other people I've known and loved for years. This recent trip was exceptionally fun with Bizarro - our day in Boston was delightful, especially hanging out with PMP who took us for fabulous cannoli in the North End. I also got to play in the waves at Nantasket, despite the drizzle. Oh how I miss the ocean!
I feel like I'm starting to finally come out of the darkness that was last winter, just before, during and after Mom's death. I am feeling more alive than ever; I can feel the possibilities of life, the energy of creation, and the wealth that is mine in so many ways. In the parlance of Live Adventure folk: Game on!
As you know, this was not the summer I'd planned. I ended up not teaching at all, and instead worked as a transcriptionist, tutor, and house keeper for the Catlic' Chorch, scrubbing the priests' terlets and washing their undies. (My sister-in-law asked whether the skid marks in a priest's undies are in the form of a crucifix. This is why I love my sister-in-law.)
So, no, not what I'd expected but the truth is that in true form, the Universe provided just what I needed. In fact our money was very tight this summer, but it forced us to be more mindful of our spending, and helped us to come together for the betterment of our household. Tracking expenses and keeping more in tune with our financial situation has been good for us both, and for our marriage.
The work I did at the rectory was actually quite easy, and since I was alone and autonomous, I had plenty of opportunity to manage my time as I saw fit, and I believe that the physical nature of the work was good for me. I tend to get stuck up here (points to head) and that's not always a good thing.
The transcription work was just fine, and it might even be useful in the future to say that I am familiar with chemical notations (who knows what kind of technical writing I might fall into at some point).
The tutoring is always fun and keeps me on the ESL map for my C.V.
Aside from my work, I had plenty of time for writing, and I was, I must say, rather prolific. I am just about finished with Sentinel, have started a new project, and most thrilling of all, I met a producer/filmmaker from L.A. who is producing a short script of mine, and who has connections that could really help me out.
I didn't get to go windsurfing, but I did spend a day at the Nor'easter Surf Shop in Scituate, Mass. and took excellent notes for my surf-related T.V. pilot. I also made a great connection for surfing lessons when I am able to give that a whirl. And the surfing season isn't over in September, so there's still a chance I could get a long weekend in and get a surfing lesson! (I'm talking surfing, not windsurfing, to be clear on that.)
Despite our financial hardship, I found a way with the help of friends to attend the Live Adventure this year (the annual live action role playing weekend I've been part of since 1991). That was a magical, wonderful, fun (if hotter than hell) weekend of beloved friends, creative imagination, camping, and music. I am so grateful!
This summer gave me ample time and opportunity to work through my grief, and I managed two trips to Massachusetts, one with Bizarro in tow, which has been extremely beneficial in my healing process. I was able to spend some QT with my beloved nephew and his family, my Big Bro, PMP, JET, Rachee and a couple other people I've known and loved for years. This recent trip was exceptionally fun with Bizarro - our day in Boston was delightful, especially hanging out with PMP who took us for fabulous cannoli in the North End. I also got to play in the waves at Nantasket, despite the drizzle. Oh how I miss the ocean!
I feel like I'm starting to finally come out of the darkness that was last winter, just before, during and after Mom's death. I am feeling more alive than ever; I can feel the possibilities of life, the energy of creation, and the wealth that is mine in so many ways. In the parlance of Live Adventure folk: Game on!
Thursday, August 06, 2009
The long and winding road
The last 2 weeks have rather heinous. I have been fighting off some ailment or another, and of course cramps in the middle of all that, trying to prep for going to Massachusetts on Monday, then to Live Adventure on Friday. Not feeling up to doing anything but lying around, so it's been stressful knowing that I have a pile of things to do and I'm not getting to them.
But I know that by the time Monday morning rolls around everything will be done and we'll be on our way to Boston, where I shall dazzle Bizarro with the wonders of New England.
The plan:
- on the nicest day we have there, go to the beach and tool around the South Shore
- on the other day, go into Boston, hang out on the Common, visit Quincy Market, the Acquarium, and have a cannoli from the North End hanging out at the waterfront.
- dinner with my friends and family at my bro's house
- as much beach time as I can squeeze in
And of course the semester is on its way; I have to turn in my course reserves tomorrow and I'm not ready. I also have to still pick out an adaptation to use. In years past I've used "Big Fish," but as that revolves around a parent's death, I will not be using that film this time.
So yeah lots to do and running out of time. It would help if I didn't feel ill.
But I know that by the time Monday morning rolls around everything will be done and we'll be on our way to Boston, where I shall dazzle Bizarro with the wonders of New England.
The plan:
- on the nicest day we have there, go to the beach and tool around the South Shore
- on the other day, go into Boston, hang out on the Common, visit Quincy Market, the Acquarium, and have a cannoli from the North End hanging out at the waterfront.
- dinner with my friends and family at my bro's house
- as much beach time as I can squeeze in
And of course the semester is on its way; I have to turn in my course reserves tomorrow and I'm not ready. I also have to still pick out an adaptation to use. In years past I've used "Big Fish," but as that revolves around a parent's death, I will not be using that film this time.
So yeah lots to do and running out of time. It would help if I didn't feel ill.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Shaken, not stirred
Things are definitely getting shaken up. I am still intent on finding a job in Boston, but I'm letting the "search" go for now. I realized yesterday it was really stressing me out. Truth is we wouldn't be moving until next year at the earliest anyway, so what's the point of looking at dumb jobs online now? Also, I say F.U. to Moster, CareerBuilder, and all the other lame-o job search engines that are useless unless 1. you're a computer nerd 2. you're a medical transcriptionist or 3. you are a pre-school teacher.
This doesn't mean I'm giving up on Boston, but I realize that I need to take my time to "create" the perfect job for me. Which means I have to figure out what the heck that means. And luckily, I have time. When I do figure it out, I will go to a head hunter for non-academic jobs. The academic jobs for next Fall will be posted over the winter (which will give me something to do other than freeze into a block of Bizarro on the futon this year). I'm going to do this right - well-thought out, with clear intent, no running after the first piece of slag thrown my way.
Those of you who know my past know that I've bounced around alot. I'm done bouncing. I need to develop a VISION STATEMENT for my life and then go from there.
I do think, however, that my years as an adjunct have caught up with me. There is a documented phenomenon in academia where those who've taught as adjuncts for a number of years, no matter how they try for a full-time position, will always be considered as "adjunct material." I experienced this at a prominent university in Boston this summer. I interviewed with them in June, and earlier this month they offered me an adjunct spot, and were willing to give me full time hours. However, when I applied for a full time spot that opened up in the meantime (there were 2 spots, actually), they declined to even bring me in for a second interview. This tells me something - perhaps I've reached that point. Not that I will give up entirely on academia, but I may well have to realize the truth of it. And truth be told, I'm not convinced that teaching is what I want to do for the rest of my life. Yes, EVERYTHING is getting shaken up!
And what I have found to be a much more meaningful use of my time, and what I am most inclined to do... is to write. It feels like a job, now, not something I cram in between other shit I have to do. So for the remainder of the summer I'm a writer first, all else second. This has worked out well - I finished revisions to the sci fi and will do revisions on my 1950s coming of age story for a writer's group in late August. Deadlines are good for me.
Another exciting development is Bizarro's passion for reorganizing his life at home - he's been reading magazines and websites about how to organize your stuff, and we both have the same Mid-century Modern swank sensibilities, which works out well for our shared living space. The energy in here is getting shaken up and it feels GOOD!
Oh and a small note but with fabulous results - I have one of those drop-chandelier things (not with crystals, it's black faux-wrought iron) in the room where I write. I replaced the little bulbs with Reveal Light bulbs that mimic daylight's colors instead of giving off that sickly yellow. It has made my writing nook more comfortable and I don't feel my eye balls falling out of my head after a couple hours here. Next job will be to get a proper desk lamp. Let there be light!
As someone once said, "change is good."
This doesn't mean I'm giving up on Boston, but I realize that I need to take my time to "create" the perfect job for me. Which means I have to figure out what the heck that means. And luckily, I have time. When I do figure it out, I will go to a head hunter for non-academic jobs. The academic jobs for next Fall will be posted over the winter (which will give me something to do other than freeze into a block of Bizarro on the futon this year). I'm going to do this right - well-thought out, with clear intent, no running after the first piece of slag thrown my way.
Those of you who know my past know that I've bounced around alot. I'm done bouncing. I need to develop a VISION STATEMENT for my life and then go from there.
I do think, however, that my years as an adjunct have caught up with me. There is a documented phenomenon in academia where those who've taught as adjuncts for a number of years, no matter how they try for a full-time position, will always be considered as "adjunct material." I experienced this at a prominent university in Boston this summer. I interviewed with them in June, and earlier this month they offered me an adjunct spot, and were willing to give me full time hours. However, when I applied for a full time spot that opened up in the meantime (there were 2 spots, actually), they declined to even bring me in for a second interview. This tells me something - perhaps I've reached that point. Not that I will give up entirely on academia, but I may well have to realize the truth of it. And truth be told, I'm not convinced that teaching is what I want to do for the rest of my life. Yes, EVERYTHING is getting shaken up!
And what I have found to be a much more meaningful use of my time, and what I am most inclined to do... is to write. It feels like a job, now, not something I cram in between other shit I have to do. So for the remainder of the summer I'm a writer first, all else second. This has worked out well - I finished revisions to the sci fi and will do revisions on my 1950s coming of age story for a writer's group in late August. Deadlines are good for me.
Another exciting development is Bizarro's passion for reorganizing his life at home - he's been reading magazines and websites about how to organize your stuff, and we both have the same Mid-century Modern swank sensibilities, which works out well for our shared living space. The energy in here is getting shaken up and it feels GOOD!
Oh and a small note but with fabulous results - I have one of those drop-chandelier things (not with crystals, it's black faux-wrought iron) in the room where I write. I replaced the little bulbs with Reveal Light bulbs that mimic daylight's colors instead of giving off that sickly yellow. It has made my writing nook more comfortable and I don't feel my eye balls falling out of my head after a couple hours here. Next job will be to get a proper desk lamp. Let there be light!
As someone once said, "change is good."
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Abundance
Trying to see what I can learn in the muck of this summer. Not having a job I thought I had, doing odd jobs to make ends meet hand to mouth, probably having to cancel the tiny trip to Massachusetts that Bizarro and I had planned for next month (I'm still holding out hope that somehow we can swing it, but it doesn't look good).
Being aware of the bounty in my life is the thing that strikes me here. I have a tendency to see the glass half empty and continuing to drain away. I don't see the good things all around me. I only see things I don't have, or want to have, or what other people have that I feel I deserve because they're no better than me.
And that usually turns into a self-flagellating episode where I go over every "bad" decision I've ever made, and I become despondent and helpless. It's a vicious cycle of negativity that I MUST break if I'm ever going to make my life a better place to live.
I've started an "abundance list" and I keep adding to it. I carry it around in my purse so it's there for me to visit when I start the "poor me" vibes begin to escalate.
I know everyone is having a hard time; these economic times suck for everyone. But I also know that I've been in this cycle of poverty consciousness pretty much from my early 20s, no matter what the economy was doing. This is what I need to remember: let the past go and only see the bounty that is in my life at present, as I make my way into the future.
The truth of the matter is that this poverty consciousness (as I call it) isn't just unique to me. I see others in my family, including my Mother, with some of the same patterns and traits. It's up to me to break this, for my Mom as well as myself and my husband.
Being aware of the bounty in my life is the thing that strikes me here. I have a tendency to see the glass half empty and continuing to drain away. I don't see the good things all around me. I only see things I don't have, or want to have, or what other people have that I feel I deserve because they're no better than me.
And that usually turns into a self-flagellating episode where I go over every "bad" decision I've ever made, and I become despondent and helpless. It's a vicious cycle of negativity that I MUST break if I'm ever going to make my life a better place to live.
I've started an "abundance list" and I keep adding to it. I carry it around in my purse so it's there for me to visit when I start the "poor me" vibes begin to escalate.
I know everyone is having a hard time; these economic times suck for everyone. But I also know that I've been in this cycle of poverty consciousness pretty much from my early 20s, no matter what the economy was doing. This is what I need to remember: let the past go and only see the bounty that is in my life at present, as I make my way into the future.
The truth of the matter is that this poverty consciousness (as I call it) isn't just unique to me. I see others in my family, including my Mother, with some of the same patterns and traits. It's up to me to break this, for my Mom as well as myself and my husband.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Settling In
Feeling a little more at ease this morning. I am really looking forward to teaching my class and getting back into a real schedule. Got up at a respectable hour this morning on the way to a busy day that will include but is not limited to: finalizing a syllabus and a couple lesson plans for the week, working on my Live Adventure character (live action role playing game I do once a year), and doing some form of exercise, depending on what today's weather offers. Also grocery shopping and a review of our household budget with Bizarro. (It's tough to have a solid budget when my income tends to change every few months.)
It's a quiet morning; I'm feeling fairly peaceful at the moment. Remembering a dream I had last night in which I was at some kind of special training in a huge mansion-like house, but I can't remember what the training was for. Anyway, the person running the program was a crazy bitch, and I soon found myself on her bad side, along with one of the other students who tried to get me in trouble and generally make my life miserable. Finally I just said screw it, got up, started packing my bags. Suddenly the student who had it out for me started being nice and helped me pack, even a bit sad that I was going. It was weird. I am weird.
Time to make the coffee.
It's a quiet morning; I'm feeling fairly peaceful at the moment. Remembering a dream I had last night in which I was at some kind of special training in a huge mansion-like house, but I can't remember what the training was for. Anyway, the person running the program was a crazy bitch, and I soon found myself on her bad side, along with one of the other students who tried to get me in trouble and generally make my life miserable. Finally I just said screw it, got up, started packing my bags. Suddenly the student who had it out for me started being nice and helped me pack, even a bit sad that I was going. It was weird. I am weird.
Time to make the coffee.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Get off my back!
I know it's been awhile and I have a bunch to catch up on.
My vacay in lovely Massachusetts was truly remarkable. I spent lots of QT with myself, family, friends, and the ocean. Had a magnificent stay at the Clarion Nantasket hotel for 2 nights on the beach, went to a longboard competition, hung out in a surf shop taking notes for my planned TV pilot, did some impromptu ghost hunting at a Revolutionary War bunker (and I think caught me an EVP, though so far only brother has been able to hear what I heard on the video clip). I also had lots of baby time with Erin and May, and played with Owen as much as I could. Got to hang out with PMP in Boston, saw Fenway Park, had drinks at the Bleacher Bar, ate lots of seafood, went to Plymouth on my last day, a very rainy day, with one of my recently former students, and got to hang with Rache at my beach hotel for a night.
Coming home - well. So. Reality setting in. A class to teach starting Monday - for which I am grateful, especially since apparently it WASN'T a done deal until yesterday. I got the call to teach and I was like "welll yeahhhh I've been planning on it." So anyway, it's all good.
Still no idea where I'm teaching this fall. I have started a preliminary job search in the Boston/South Shore area. I had two (count 'em) interviews while I was there, with little to no effort on my part. One was for an ESL teaching position with some possibility for long-term work, the other as a communications specialist for a company that does research and fund-raising for MS cures (among other things).
I really don't know where things are heading right now. Some serious thinking and decision making coming up in the coming months. I am feeling more disheartened than ever here in the City on the Edge of Forever (yeah, I didn't get that job at the community college after all). After 3.5 years of searching I've had maybe 4 interviews. A week in Mass. and I get 2 interviews without even really trying.
And truth is, no place has ever felt like home to me other than the South Shore. At the same time, change is scary. I've lived here longer than anyplace else in recent history. Despite how unhappy I often am with this area (weather, cold dark apartment, allergies, isolation, lack of career opportunity, lack of the ocean, etc.) it's in many ways easier to keep on in the same direction than to try a new one. God knows I've moved so often in my life. It would be nice to feel settled with a home base. I'm just not convinced that "here" is where my home base should be.
A little much to think about right now, I know. I'm still dealing with Mom's death and the giant hole it's left in my life. Perhaps that is why I feel so attracted to my family right now, especially the grand-babies. I missed my nephew's growing up and I really hate the thought of missing theirs.
For the time being I'm just trying to get myself geared up for the summer teaching job and will see how some of this other stuff lands. Getting myself back into a schedule will feel really good. The pool is open, so I will swim and go for walks and continue working on my fitness/weight loss plan. I am very bummed that I have no time or money for the windsurfing beginners clinic this weekend. Still I'm sure there'll be other opportunities, and I'm also thinking I want to try my hands at kayaking this summer. And of course Yoga. Making the most of where I am and what I have at my disposal for the summer. The rest will be dealt with in good time...
My vacay in lovely Massachusetts was truly remarkable. I spent lots of QT with myself, family, friends, and the ocean. Had a magnificent stay at the Clarion Nantasket hotel for 2 nights on the beach, went to a longboard competition, hung out in a surf shop taking notes for my planned TV pilot, did some impromptu ghost hunting at a Revolutionary War bunker (and I think caught me an EVP, though so far only brother has been able to hear what I heard on the video clip). I also had lots of baby time with Erin and May, and played with Owen as much as I could. Got to hang out with PMP in Boston, saw Fenway Park, had drinks at the Bleacher Bar, ate lots of seafood, went to Plymouth on my last day, a very rainy day, with one of my recently former students, and got to hang with Rache at my beach hotel for a night.
Coming home - well. So. Reality setting in. A class to teach starting Monday - for which I am grateful, especially since apparently it WASN'T a done deal until yesterday. I got the call to teach and I was like "welll yeahhhh I've been planning on it." So anyway, it's all good.
Still no idea where I'm teaching this fall. I have started a preliminary job search in the Boston/South Shore area. I had two (count 'em) interviews while I was there, with little to no effort on my part. One was for an ESL teaching position with some possibility for long-term work, the other as a communications specialist for a company that does research and fund-raising for MS cures (among other things).
I really don't know where things are heading right now. Some serious thinking and decision making coming up in the coming months. I am feeling more disheartened than ever here in the City on the Edge of Forever (yeah, I didn't get that job at the community college after all). After 3.5 years of searching I've had maybe 4 interviews. A week in Mass. and I get 2 interviews without even really trying.
And truth is, no place has ever felt like home to me other than the South Shore. At the same time, change is scary. I've lived here longer than anyplace else in recent history. Despite how unhappy I often am with this area (weather, cold dark apartment, allergies, isolation, lack of career opportunity, lack of the ocean, etc.) it's in many ways easier to keep on in the same direction than to try a new one. God knows I've moved so often in my life. It would be nice to feel settled with a home base. I'm just not convinced that "here" is where my home base should be.
A little much to think about right now, I know. I'm still dealing with Mom's death and the giant hole it's left in my life. Perhaps that is why I feel so attracted to my family right now, especially the grand-babies. I missed my nephew's growing up and I really hate the thought of missing theirs.
For the time being I'm just trying to get myself geared up for the summer teaching job and will see how some of this other stuff lands. Getting myself back into a schedule will feel really good. The pool is open, so I will swim and go for walks and continue working on my fitness/weight loss plan. I am very bummed that I have no time or money for the windsurfing beginners clinic this weekend. Still I'm sure there'll be other opportunities, and I'm also thinking I want to try my hands at kayaking this summer. And of course Yoga. Making the most of where I am and what I have at my disposal for the summer. The rest will be dealt with in good time...
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Scomin' Up
(like a flower...)
Spring is only a couple days away. It feels so good to say it! I've worn sandals this week. My toes look up to the sun and yelp for joy. Soon my skin will no longer be translucent white! I will not look like a derned vampyr what with my jagged eye teeth and my see-through skin and clammy-cold texture.
I have started to think about where else I'd like to live, if I do have to go elsewhere for a job. San Diego keeps coming to mind #1. It just keeps coming up in conversation and in random places, and it's been in my head for awhile. Boston is cool but very expensive. It's the only place I would consider living in the Northeast at this point.
In any case, if I need to go, I am going to a place with a shoreline. As in with an ocean, not some namby-pamby fresh water slime-bottomed lake. [Addendum: What is with you, lakes? You think you're so cool with your wineries and your chataus-on-the-you and your rowing teams splashing around. Really. You are SLIMY. That truth cannot be dismissed, ignored or excused. You have no oysters, no shrimp, no dolphins. You are NOT an ocean and therefore you are less-than. There. I said it.]
Also, I had to yell at my students yesterday. Not all of them deserved it but then again it's always good to answer the question "why do I write." It's a reminder of what part of you enjoys the torture. And I told those who couldn't answer the question with anything more than "it's cool, I'll get laid, maybe I can move to Hollywood" they probably are in the wrong business.
Then I went out drinking afterwards. Met SMJ and Kyle after picking up Bizarro (who actually WENT OUT on a week night). It was great craic as the Irish say.
Spring is only a couple days away. It feels so good to say it! I've worn sandals this week. My toes look up to the sun and yelp for joy. Soon my skin will no longer be translucent white! I will not look like a derned vampyr what with my jagged eye teeth and my see-through skin and clammy-cold texture.
I have started to think about where else I'd like to live, if I do have to go elsewhere for a job. San Diego keeps coming to mind #1. It just keeps coming up in conversation and in random places, and it's been in my head for awhile. Boston is cool but very expensive. It's the only place I would consider living in the Northeast at this point.
In any case, if I need to go, I am going to a place with a shoreline. As in with an ocean, not some namby-pamby fresh water slime-bottomed lake. [Addendum: What is with you, lakes? You think you're so cool with your wineries and your chataus-on-the-you and your rowing teams splashing around. Really. You are SLIMY. That truth cannot be dismissed, ignored or excused. You have no oysters, no shrimp, no dolphins. You are NOT an ocean and therefore you are less-than. There. I said it.]
Also, I had to yell at my students yesterday. Not all of them deserved it but then again it's always good to answer the question "why do I write." It's a reminder of what part of you enjoys the torture. And I told those who couldn't answer the question with anything more than "it's cool, I'll get laid, maybe I can move to Hollywood" they probably are in the wrong business.
Then I went out drinking afterwards. Met SMJ and Kyle after picking up Bizarro (who actually WENT OUT on a week night). It was great craic as the Irish say.
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