Life is a transition

Fear

2007-12-29T19:01:00.000-06:00

God has shown me gradually and recently that I am hindered by fear. I'm afraid of being the fearless, religious wacko. I'm afraid of being unrelatable, annoying, and over the top, and unreasonable, and too religious.

This is a lie. "Don't go deeper with God because you will become unreasonable if you truly believe it." It doesn't even make sense. And CANNOT be a reason not to grow.

Do you believe the lie?

Free 1411

2007-12-14T09:00:00.000-06:00

Did you know you can call Google, and get information for free?

The number is 1-800-GOOG-411.
Save it in your cell phone right now. You won't regret it.

Check it out here:
http://www.google.com/goog411/

Also, you can text Google for free for information. The number is 46645 (GOOGL).
Text the business name, city and state.
Save it to your cell phone right now.

Your welcome.

Be Nice

2007-12-12T19:00:00.000-06:00

I don't know about you, but most of the time, in public, I just want to follow the culturally acceptable societal norms, not cause any trouble, and get through situations (travel, eating out, etc) without unneeded trouble.

Recently, I'm boarding a 777 airplane. Huge. 2 isles. 9 seats across. 4 different seating cabins. I was late. Last on the plane, in fact. As I'm walking to my seat, I notice all the overhead bins have been closed. Wondering where to put by large carry-on bag, I hear an announcement "The overhead bins are full. If you have a carry-on that will not fit under the seat in front of you, please bring it to the front of the plane to be checked." that's me.

At this point, I'm in first class. On my way to the front of the plane, I climb over an unsuspecting first class passenger as a large man refuses to let me by otherwise. Another first class passenger opens and overhead bin, and I see it is empty.

I immediately think "What do I do? Last time I even tried to put a suit coat in first class, I was practically thrown off the plane. Better not use THEIR overhead bin."

I come across my first flight attendant and try to hand him my bag. He points to the overhead bin. I say "Oh, I wasn't sure...I'm not a first class passenger..."

He literally throws a hand on his hip, cops and attitude, smirks, and says (like a disgruntled teenager) "Yeeeeeeeeeees. It's empty, isn't it?!"

i instantly felt tiny. insignificant. stupid. once I crawled back to my seat, I was convicted:

Who have I treated like that? too many people, I'm sure.

Be nice.

How to do anything

2007-12-11T08:10:00.000-06:00

If you haven't already heard, Wikipedia now has a rock'n How-To section:

http://www.wikihow.com/

Look up "Build a Hidden Door Bookshelf"...and start there.
I recently learned how to get a sour smell out of towels and how to fold towels into animal shapes.

Busyness

2007-11-25T20:00:00.000-06:00

I am so tired of this topic. I've also resorted to the fact that it will only get worse.

Recently, I got a wake up call. God revealed that I had been doing life my way for quite some time. My way just happens to include running around worrying about everything. Stressed out, tired, failing at everything, no realistic expectations, and no time with God.

"To pursue intimacy with Christ, you will have to fight for it. You'll need to fight busyness...fight accusations..." (Captivating, p. 125)

God make me a fighter. Feisty. You may have noticed. How about I use this energy to protect my time with God instead of fighting the fight of life my own way?

I'm not completely sure what this looks like. But, I want it. maybe it means less internet time, less working from home, less phone time, less shopping? More rest, more confidence in God, more peace, more clarity, more to offer others?

Sounds like a fair trade.

Denton's Coffee

2007-11-24T12:00:00.000-06:00

In case you didn't know, there's a great coffee roaster right in Denton, Texas:

http://www.bookishcoffee.com/

They ship, subscribe, and I hear their bean makes a great "Rocket Coffee"

Romance

2007-11-15T06:46:00.000-06:00

I don't think we give God enough credit (otherwise known as praise) for how much he romances us on a daily basis. No, I'm no reading one of those Christian-let-God-be-your-lover books. I've felt this for a long time, but felt silly for thinking it. God likes beautiful things. He makes them. Redwoods. Monarch butterflies. Every sunset. Bluebonnets. Sunshine. Breezes.

I will never forget my 25th birthday. I love the moon. My mom tells stories of me, as a little girls, talking out the car window to the moon during nighttime rides. So, it's only fitting that on my 25th birthday, God gave me a full moon. That's right. He put it up there big and bright, in the cloudless night, on my birthday. I knew right away he knew I would love it, and see that it was from him.

For you skeptics, I know that we can really dig this kind of stuff up if you want to read into everything. That's not what I'm doing. Think of something beautiful that has stirred you. Maybe something in nature or a child. God makes all these on purpose. He has put this all before us as a tiny glimpse of what Eden may have held.

Thank you Lord, for glorious breezes, the colorful fall leaves, and breathtaking sunsets. It is a simple reminder of your strength, beauty, sovereignty, and individual love for each of us.

Free Wi-Fi

2007-11-08T16:50:00.000-06:00

I wanted to repost this post:
http://whoreadsthisanyway.blogspot.com/2006/11/find-free-wifi.html

Free internet, in your neighborhood. That is all.

The Office

2007-11-07T19:38:00.000-06:00

Check out this page of fake Public Service Announcements: Click Here.
The cast of The Office got together and made a whole bunch of spoof "The More You Know" commercials.

1977 Sears Catalog

2007-11-06T16:29:00.000-06:00

Click on this link right now, and check out a hularious blast from the past.

3 words. Polyester is funny.

How Stuff Works

2007-10-30T08:08:00.000-05:00

This is a cool new website:

http://www.howstuffworks.com/

They cover everything from "ringxiety" and alternate universes. Enjoy

Gen Y pushes back careers

2007-10-25T07:58:00.000-05:00

This article with Business Week is specific to Gen Y and humanitarian job switching: http://www.newsweek.com/id/52229

But, I’ve noticed this job switching in myself and peers. Not for humanitarian efforts, but for happiness. When I say “peers” I’m including college classmates, co-workers, friends, and neighbors in their twenties and early thirties. We take jobs, relocate, move back home, change jobs again, get promoted, go back to school, put school on hold again, get a new job….

Sometimes our attention span with jobs is as short as it is with TV channels.

The Business Week article says the result will be delayed retirement for our parents. Aren’t these the same Baby Boomer parents that already don’t have enough saved for retirement? So, not only are we already expected to support them, but we are shortening our time to prepare for that and consequently save for our own retirement. Partner this with record breaking student loans as a generations, and this makes me a little nervous.

“Across the developing world, under 30’s would overwhelmingly rather ‘pursue their passions’ than ‘make lots of money.’” (Business Week) I’m actually right on the cusp between Gen X and Gen Y. Unlike Gen Y, Gen X (the first latchkey kids of America) expects to have to take care of themselves.

On this particular issue, the Gen X side of me is looking at the Gen Y side, hand on hip, saying “You better get your act together and snap to!”

I personally love my job, and don’t plan on changing anytime soon. In the meantime, I’ll get my excitement playing practical jokes at work.

Volunteering to Death

2007-10-18T22:35:00.000-05:00

<-- This picture is what I found, late one night, in my closet. I did not put it there. This is retaliation for a very scary cardboard stand up I had put outside a friend's back door. Photo coming next week...

_______________

And now for the actual blogging:

Recently, I was one of those people that quits.

I am very careful with my commitments because I follow through on them. Therefore, when I was praying and chose a ministry at church to serve in, I was very clear that I could only volunteer 1 weekend a month. Within 4 months, I was averaging 3 weekends a month.

I did take the time to very politely tell them that I did not have that kind of time free. (And this is when I was starting a new job and stressed to my absolute limits and traveling for work more) After another month, it became clear that this wasn't going to work out.

I hate to quit things. I hate when volunteers get sapped to the max. This of course drives them to quit, stressing those left behind. Ah, the cycle of life.

Be nice to your volunteers, they're doing it for free.

eHarmony

2007-10-08T23:06:00.001-05:00

http://www.eharmony.com/

learn it. love it.

In case you haven't heard, eharmony worked for me. Actually, it worked for us. That's right, I'm engaged to someone I met on eharmony. The last month, I didn't cancel my membership correctly, and it autorenewed for another month. During that month, James signed up. We emailed for a month, met in January, dated, and got engaged in September.

I'm not going into ALL the details, but we do agree that eharmony did cut the crap, and helped us establish initially things that we had in common and were important to us. Also, there was still tons of romance, nerves, and all that fun stuff. That didn't change just because we were introduced on-line.

Praise God for eharmony, his timing, and his sense of humor!

Internet Dating tips

2007-09-26T21:53:00.000-05:00

For Him:

Don't post 3 pictures of you and your best friend, who happens to be a beautiful woman.

Don't shop for friends. Everyone else is actually trying to date.

Don't post pictures of you with kids unless you have some...women see right through it.

Do meet in person before getting too personal. It will give you something to talk about anyway.

Do make the first move (whatever that means).

Try to avoid overly committed verbage before meeeting: "cuddling," "soul mate," "hint, hint, wink, wink." I'ts not cute, it's scary.

Do fill in all the "about me" info. This is not the time to be overly mystereous.

Don't sit next to one of your matches in church (that you haven't met in person yet) and then ignore her.

Don't agree to meet one of you matches for the first time, and then sit and stare across the coffee shop instead of saying hi.

For Her:

Don't superimpose your faces to see what your kids look like and then send it to him.

Do wait for him to make some significant first moves.

Don't give him your full name until you absolutely have to or want to.

Do have your friends sit across the restraunt and take pictures of you while on a date.

Don't blog about it too soon.

Do use screenshots of eHarmony to get around the copyright and send photos to your friends.

Don't count on actually meeting your soulmate. You might be disappointed. Just relax and enjoy meeting other people.

Don't expand your search to the whole USA hoping to get better matches. You'll just get more desperate ones.

I'm Baaaaaaa-aaaaaack

2007-09-21T13:29:00.000-05:00

So, the blog is back. That's right. Game. On. What can you expect? I don't even know.

Live has changed so much in the last 12 months...I hope to have plenty of material. Including some occasional wedding planning humor. Not too much, I'm not that gross.

See you soon!

Time Out

2006-11-22T22:03:00.000-06:00

I'm taking a blog time out.

Why?

It has nothing to do with eHarmony, no internet at my house, or my laptop being in the shop.

It has everrything to do with the Lord convicting me that I rely too much on the internet for too many things. Instead of calling people, I sometimes just blog and expect you to read this. When I come home to visit, I actually get dissapointed if everyone hasn't kept up. This isn't the person I want to be. I'm also convicted that I am too plugged in...mostly out of bordom. So, you won't see me on MSN IM, gmail, myspace, facebook, or whatever nearly so much.

I will be take some time being more intentional with my internet time and seeing what that looks like.

I will be reading.

I will continue writing, and saving everything.

Keep my blog posted, keep the link, expect to hear more...but after a short break.

Sadvember

2006-11-20T17:49:00.000-06:00

No, I'm not sad, but November in Chicago sure is. According to the weatherman, only 30% of our sunlight in November makes it to us, the people. The rest is blocked by the cloudiest month of the year. Add that to the temperature steadily dropping and the sun already setting at 4:15 PM...

I'm dieing for some sunlight. I go outside and freeze at lunchtime just to get some light. I love Chicago, I love the cold, but I NEED SUN! This baby born in the sunshine state is shriveling up. My only saving grace is that I found an indoor track that only charges $1 per visit to come run. So, I can continue to train for my 10K while getting pasty-er and pasty-er.

All I have to do is make it till December 22nd, the shortest day of the year this year. Then, I'll get my sunshine back, 1 minute a day.

----
PS-I wrote this blog last Thursday, and this morning, I woke up to the sunniest day all month. Praise the Lord for sunshine! The squirrels outside my office window are laying on the branches sleeping in the sun. Happy Monday.

Whos not that into whom?

2006-11-18T21:39:00.000-06:00

This is me on my coffee date with Mr. Impersonations. This is my friend Lynn on the right. Special thanks to Laura for being a great stealth photographer.
---------------------------------------------------

In honor of the three month eHarmony anniversary, I read two books in one night
1) He's Just Not That Into You
2) Admit it, You're Not That Into Him, Either

Would I recommend them? Not exactly. The first one has one main point: Don't waste your time with a dude who's not willing to actually date you, won't treat you how you really deserve to be treated, or is generally wasting your time. Now, since you're reading my blog, you don't have to buy the book. You're welcome.

The second book is mostly written for women who get caught up in the "friends with benefits" scene...which isn't so much me, either.

So, $20.00 and 2 hours later, I have plenty of advice for women who are wasting their time or giving it away for free.

eHarmony Update

2006-11-17T21:43:00.000-06:00

Many of you have been emailing me demanding more eHarmony updates. Fine! Here you go:

1) Mr. FastTrack turned out, as I suspected, to just be looking for a friend, and closed me as a match to "make room for more matches." always flattering, that one.

2) Mr. Impersonations and I had a coffee date. As I was reading my book, wondering why he was 10 minutes late and hadn't called, I turn around and look all around the coffee shop. He was actually sitting right behind me, with a coffee, looking at me. CREEPY! Good thing I had already asked 2 friends to sit across the coffee shop and take pictures...anyway...I got coffee and we talked for about an hour. He was a super nice guy, super shy, super nervous. Super. As I was leaving, he said he'd lost my number, I said I'd email it to him...I didn't.

3) Turns out eHarmony auto-renews unless you read the fine print and know how to turn it off. SO, I only thought November 13th was my day of freedom. Nope, 30 more days of torture for me, and 30 more days of entertainment for you. This time, however, I'm working this puppy like a job. I have, however, learned my lesson, and I won't be posting any more eHarmony updates for about a month, until the statute of limitations runs out.

peace.

Find free WiFi

2006-11-16T18:26:00.000-06:00

My roommate and I cancelled our internet connection. Since November 4th, at 12:35 PM, we have been without. Sometimes we pick up a rouge connection from a neighbor, but for the most part, we are unplugged. How has my life been different? Let me tell you.

I the first few days, we cleaned the whole house, rearranged the living room, hung curtains, re-hung pictures, and I've finished 2 books. I cook more, jog more, and call people more (but maybe not you, yet....). I love it. It's liberating to have 8 channels and no internet.

I've also discovered there are SO many places to get free internet, which is what I was counting on:

Click on this link, scroll down, and select your state to find businesses that offer free internet.
Traveling soon? This one is international

I was able to use the above links to map out over 15 places between work and home where I can get free internet. God is good.

You might be 20 and single if...

2006-11-04T08:49:00.000-06:00

Your lunch at work is a pack of Ramen, a banana, and a breakfast bar
Your usual lunch is 1 lean cuisine and free packets of crackers from the cafeteria
You can live for 2 weeks just off leftovers from business lunches
People you work with give you things constantly, including grills, clothes, and a VCR
You go to NYC, and even though you could afford a hotel, it's totally acceptable to crash on sofas of people you barely know.
Your car gets broken into, you tape up the window, and think: "...that's not so bad...I'm in no hurry to get it fixed, maybe someone will steal it"
You have a blog.
You mom has stopped asking you about dating, and is now TELLING you how to date.
Half of your friends are doing internet dating, and aren't even shy about it.

Corn Maze

2006-10-30T22:42:00.000-06:00

Because the blog is going on a break on November 15th, I've got a lot to get out. So, the next 2 weeks may be big...
-------------------------
a week ago, I went to the biggest corn maze in the world...it was unbelievable. 28.5 acres of corn. 10.7 miles of paths. 3 hours of wandering around. Loved it. It was just the kind of random, culturally unique, seasonally appropriate thing I love to do.

Check out the web site:
http://richardsonfarm.com/r-maze.htm

Of course, there were severa metaphors for life:
-life is a maze
-without the map, we're lost
-stop jumping out of the corn (not so sure about that one)

Seriously, if you ever have the opportunity to go to a corn maze, it's a once in a lifetime experience...and you may only do it once. :)

Nichole Nordeman.com

2006-10-28T20:44:00.000-05:00

Fear Factor” – appeared in the August, 2006 Issue of CCM Magazine

There is a slight misconception about the glamour of being on tour. Someone, a long time ago, started some vicious rumor about how exciting road life is. Playing music, connecting with people, watching God at work…those are the exciting things. But unless your name is Sting or Madonna or Bono, the most adventure you will find on the road, depends largely on whatever is walking distance from your room at the Fairfield Inn. More often than not, this is usually a Wal-Mart, which is where I found myself looking for beach towels with my road manager Michelle, in the middle of Arkansas recently.

No beach in sight, of course. But heck if we weren’t going to be ready. After we’d purchased our towels we began to walk across the parking lot, and back toward our hotel. We were chatting…girl talk…discussing how appropriately prepared we were, should a body of water appear on the horizon.

Suddenly, without noise or warning, a man joined our stride and started walking next to us. Not near us. Not behind us. Directly next to us, with an alarming amount of poise and confidence…like it was the most natural thing in the world. Now, please understand that I have rehearsed this scenario in my mind a hundred times. As a woman, I am always aware of my surroundings. Always looking around the parking lot when I get in and out of my car. Always suspect of the guy who looks…well…suspect. I have, at times in my life, carried mace, learned basic self-defense and called the cops on suspicious looking weirdoes.

Which is why it becomes even more difficult to admit how I reacted to this strange man, who inexplicably started walking shoulder to shoulder with me in the middle of a parking lot.

I froze. My feet kept walking, but everything else ceased to function. For some totally bizarre and unfathomable reason, I did absolutely…nothing. I was utterly terrified and paralyzed. I never once looked at his face. I did not quicken my pace. I did not motion to my friend to unleash ninja warfare on him (she seemed unfazed and still chatting) …I only froze. I saw my life flash before my eyes. I pictured him shoving us into his trunk. I saw the headlines…”Christian artist and road manager abducted…Foul play suspected…. Beach towels a mystery.” Fear had completely taken over, and I was, without a doubt, its prisoner.

We continued walking…the three of us…Laverne, Shirley and the serial killer for a few more minutes, and I still could not even find the courage to glance at him. Then he spoke. And I almost collapsed at the sound of the very familiar voice of Scott, my bass player. He himself, had been aimlessly wandering around Wal-Mart, saw us walking back to the hotel and just quietly caught up with us. And being a rather introverted type, never announced his presence or felt the need to engage us in conversation. He was happy just to tag along. After I scraped myself up off the pavement and we all had a good laugh, I sat in my hotel room thinking about the power of fear. So powerful, that it erased all common sense, all resolve, all determination to “step up” in the moment. It basically took me out at the kneecaps. I was simply too afraid to respond or react.

2006-10-27T20:45:00.000-05:00

As usual, another funny video has come across the wire. You may have to copy paste this to your Address box:

The HIstory of Dancehttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMH0bHeiRNg

some of you have seen it. If you haven't, it's worth the wait for it to load.

I heard he is coming out with a Part II...anyone know?

Dad, Mr. Wizard

2006-10-25T20:42:00.000-05:00

Today, my dad and I exchanged the following email, and I wanted to share:
--------------------------
Dad,
Okay, wireless networks...how come we can't do that with electricity? > So we could transmit electricity to my stereo or something?
-Nicole
---------------------------
You can do that. Problem is you have to transmit a *lot* of power and it has to be at a frequency that passes through air without a lot of power loss. Unfortunately, that falls into the microwave range and we're all a bit sensitive to having our heads explode.

Radios only work because you can amplify the signal (information) and the recievers only need a small (microvolts, that's 0.00001 volts) amounts of radio energy to pass the information to you. Passing power to you requires you recieve all the power you need via the radio waves - big problem, see paragraph 1...

-- Dad (Mr Wizard)

Busted

2006-10-19T21:56:00.000-05:00

This week, 2 big things have happened:

1) my car was totally broken into, the stereo rippen out, window busted, and dash ripped up. I have now joined the ranks of those who drive with plastic and duck tape on proud display. Oh, and as part of the fun, I have no turn signal to speak of. My car is total silence but for the loud rattle of the plastic. Yes, this picture is of MY car, Cujo...who is aging quickly these last 8 months...

2) an eHarmony match has discovered my blog. Now, it's possible that others before him have found it, but instead of telling me, they just closed the match. So, of course I scoured this thing to see if I had written anything about him. AND, I am proud to say, that I didn't have to change anything on the blog, but I did find and fix 1 type-o (I know, why just 1?).

The week is looking up, I think I'm going to the "World's largest corn maze" this weekend. You know you'll get a full report.

Lastly, enjoy these next few posts...I think my blog is taking an unknown sabbatical. Long story...Maybe you'll get more details on the last post...Coming in a week or so.

12 NOON

2006-10-12T11:46:00.000-05:00

Feel free to contribute to this, but what is up with 12 NOON being PM?

First of all, it confuses the heck out of all kids trying to tell time.
"You mean it goes 9 AM, 10 AM, 11 AM, and 12 PM? WHY?"

I mean, if 12 PM is already PM, why not start 1PM early and start 1 AM early.

Can someone offer some answers here?!

eHarmony goes email

2006-10-09T11:47:00.000-05:00

So, there's a defining moment in every eHarmony communication, when the dude says, "you can send me emails if you want at ...."

This is good in that it means you aren't about to get dumped. It's bad in that they have your email address, and in my case, my full name. This is when it's good to have a very common name, like I do. I think if you google my whole name, you get 10,200,000 responses. I'm free and clear.

So, at this point, I am emailing 4 dudes, counting the one I'm breaking it off with today. No one overly spectacular.

Stay tuned for more blogs about how our generation considers dating vs. our parents, etc. It'll be good, promise.

eDating

2006-10-03T22:12:00.000-05:00

This is great picture, taken by Brady Black, of a kid boxing himself in the Chicago Bean.
-----------------------
Tonight was full of landmarks:
1) First Chicago Date
2) First eHarmony Date
3) Most polite date
4) Learned new "deal breakers"

Let me explain, as some of you remember from last week, I was in a dilemma because I was set to go out with a guy I didn't think I wanted to actually date. In the process of collecting votes, I had a good talk with my mom. She pointed out that my generation (Gen X/Y) won't date anyone unless we think we could marry the person. Her generation (Baby Boomers) was cool to just go on a date, have a nice evening, and enjoy another person's company. Besides, how do you know you can't date him unless you go on one?

This got me thinking, that though I should maintain my standards, I could probably loosen up a bit on the jaws of death that usually protect me from dating. So, I went on this date.

It was tonight, a school night, a Tuesday. We were both too busy to go out last weekend, or the the next two. We had dinner at the Cheesecake Factory (his idea) followed by a good football movie (my idea). Now, if you know me, this sounds like a great date: good food + football = fun for Nicole. Don't get me wrong, I had a nice time...key word being "nice."

There were 2 defining moments in the night, when I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that this would not work out:
1) After the dinner portion of our meal, at The Cheesecake Factory, the waitress asks if "we've saved room for the best part" and he says no. WHAT??!?!? We are at the Cheesecake factory, and this bucko has decided to forgo the cheesecake? Is this some kind of sick joke?!?!?! At this point, the waitress looks at me, and politely say,"no thank you." That's right, if you can hold out on desert, so can I.
2) As we are rating the previews for the movie, the preview for Napoleon's latest movie came on, and I'm thinking this movie looks hilarious (even though it's from the Director of Old School), and he gives it a thumbs down...ooooooo...this might not work out. I was getting the zero-cussing-allowed-in-these-ears vibe (not that there's anything wrong with that...but, it severely limits the movie options...) and it turns out that's deal breaker for me.

So, in summary, if he calls me, I have a whole speech planned to let him down easy. It was a nice night...good conversation...not enough in common...yadda, yadda, yadda.

Don't give up, I'm still emailing 2 guys with a 3rd on the way. There's more eHarmony to come!

First Dave Concert

2006-10-02T11:46:00.000-05:00

A milestone in my life has just passed. No, it wasn't my 27th Birthday, it was my first Dave Matthews Concert. So much happened or was observed, I have to keep this simple. Following is a list of observations or events from the night.

-The ticket was free and I only had 6 hours notice.
-I'd never seen so many white guys dancing so much.
-I'd never seen so many people making out in public.
-I'd never seen a $10 beer.
-Yes, people were smoking weed.
-Yes, there were a lot of teenagers.
-Drank a free coffee from Dunkin Donuts.
-Saw a LOT of people getting thrown out.
-Witnessed church groups earning money by working the beer tents.
-Got 2 free condoms.
-Got a free iPod sock (blog coming soon)
-Got a free digital picture of myself and a mix CD
-Got 4 free songs from MSN
-Ate a huge pretzel
-Saw a lot of drunk guys falling off their chairs
-Wished I had brought antibacterial gel
-I SCALPED MY FIRST TICKETS. I was the seller. It was the least I could do to earn the free ticket I was given. It went down like this: I looked clean and nice, walked around the parking lot holding out the 2 tickets, politely asking people if they needed pavilion tickets. After only 5 minutes, they were sold. It was very dangerous and liberating.

Bought a cool green t-shirt. I liked it. I don't think I would have paid for tickets, but that's because I'm really cheap. I had a great time and enjoyed some great musicians.

It was a good night.

OK! I'll post an update...

2006-09-30T22:27:00.000-05:00

I LOVE this picture. Brady took it and worked his sweet photo refining skills. Morocco was great.
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Thanks to all of you for calling me at all hours to ask what's going on with the date. No, really, thanks. I'll update you on that as well as a few more things:

I AM going on the date. Votes were outstandingly YES. I do want to disclaim that I am going for my own reasons, not just the vote. But it was fun to participate, now, wasn't it? The date is Tuesday, it will be dinner, and I have the outfit picked out (picture will be posted with the date update).

Friday, I went to 2 concerts and worked a full day:
6 AM: free Bare Naked Ladies concert at the zoo near my work.
9 AM: go to work, full day ahead.
7 PM: see Shawn McDonald in concert at Wheaton College.
I've seen more good live music in a 24 hour period than I can handle.

Saturday, today, I was able to join a friend in the Breast Cancer Walk in Chicago in honor of her mother who died just last December. In her honor, this year, during breast cancer awareness month (October) I will not make fun of the eroneous amounts of pink merchandise in every shape and type. Today, I saw a blender with the pink ribbon on it, and I hope they sell tons.

I have been terribly home sick lately. It's almost been homesicktember. I am so excited to be coming to Denton next weekend. That's right, I'M COMING HOME! Friends, you should know that I'll be at Homecoming on Saturday. Look for me at tailgating.

Anyone want to go to Billy Bob's on the 14th?

PS-check the top 5 blog (link on the left) and let us know what yours are.

eVote, HELP!

2006-09-25T21:07:00.000-05:00

This is a cool picture Brady took when Amber and B were in town.

Ladies and Gentleman, I need your help. I am trapped in an eHarmony moral dilema:

I have been asked on my first eHarmony date. BUT, I know that I am not romantically interested. BUT, I'd love to blog about it for you all. And, what girl doesn't want to reset the dating clock every once in a while?

So, I'm calling on you, my faithful readers to help me out.

Pros of going on the date:
-meeting him face to face and comparing to eHarmony profile
-actually getting a date out of my eHarmony subscription
-blogging about it

Cons of going on the date:
-knowing I have no intentions of dating him
-It could be bad, ugly, and/or awkward
-my own conscience

Please vote early and often. I need to give him an answer by Wednesday. Click on the envelope right below this post and forward this to your friends, I need all the advice I can get on this one.

So, scroll down a little bit, and use the poll on the left to vote.

Thanks!

Talking Internet people

2006-09-24T19:32:00.000-05:00

Hey, thanks to my friends, the Blacks, we now have another thing we can do for fun on the internet.

Go to www.sitepal.com and you can create animated people, with backgrounds, voices, clothes, hair, and they can say whatever you want.

Props to Amber for sending me a dude that was apologizing for dumping me on eHarmony and forgetting to surprise me on my birthday.

Props to brady for making a Natzi recite vanilla ice.

Enjoy.

Nospendtember

2006-09-23T18:13:00.000-05:00

Ladies and Gentleman,

Things in Nicole's wallet have gotten scary. So this month, I had to MAKE more money than I spent, every week. So far this month, I have sold 5 things on ebay and my bike, and only spent minimal $4 going country dancing.

This month, it's all about ebay, pizza delivery, and the simple things in life.

Check out the chunky blog soon.

eFastTrack Part 1

2006-09-20T20:35:00.000-05:00

For weeks, I have been curious about this option. So, I tried it out with Joe.

On September 5th, I clicked the Request FastTrack button. I had to "read" Dr. Warren's message, again. blah, blah, be safe...blah, blah, if you end up dating someone you blogged about, don't tell him, blah, blah.

I am also told, "Some members prefer to stay in guided communication so don't be discouraged if Joe rejects this offer. You will still be able to continue through our Guided Communication process."

This is how it went down:
9/6, 8PM, sent request for FastTrack

Hey Joe- Hey, I went ahead, and risked it all and went to FastTrack. Partly, it
seemed risky, and I'm sometimes into risks. Also, I like that you put that
people don't get your sense of humor and you like writing nouns as complete
sentences. Sometimes people don't get my humor, either. Though, they humor me at least when they get to know me. So, you're reading about the Postmodern culture
and how the church is responding. What do you think about that?

Within 12 hours, I receive a rather exciting response (highlights):

So.. FastTrack huh? Now we've skipped Dr. Warren's whole scientific process!
Whatever will we do? Surely this cannot work.Well, hey, I like the fact that
you like to take risks. And, looking at your profile, apparently you like to
write nouns as complete sentences too! (Unless you just copied me.. haha)

I've actually only just started reading the book about postmodernism, though I do have some thoughts about the topic...{insert long description and insightful thoughts on the topic}
Joe
PS: I've found this little text box to be kind of annoying -- if you'd rather just
email me, my email address is......

-stay tuned for Part 2 of eFastTrack

Do not try this at home.

2006-09-16T11:39:00.000-05:00

"When high school students in this country are capable of making these, why would you attack this country?" -Mike
--------------------------------------------

Part of my Labor Day celebration involved a stop at our "surrogate parents" house, where Mike (the man of the house) educated my roommate and I on the proper uses of a potato gun. Following are some of the key ingredients:

-Aquanet hair spray, it has the best alcohol content
-the best igniter is a grill igniter. This also puts the trigger on the outside.
-"The key is this sharp edge that cuts the potato as you load to to create a seal"

Mike's potato gun was about 4 feet long. We used a broom handle to load the potato, a wrench to open the end and add hair spray before igniting. Make sure to rest the potato gun on your hip when shooting, and aim about 80% from ground level to clear the houses.

Lessons learned:
-Do NOT look directly into the barrel of the gun right after shooting. (The residual flame might sear your eye brows).
-Do NOT wait too long between loading and shooting the gun. The barrel dries out, increasing resistance, and could result in the gun exploding.
-WD40 applied inside the barrel can really help your distance.

eHarmony

2006-09-12T21:03:00.000-05:00

This is me and my friend Kyle at the Fireman retirement party you may have heard about last week.
-------------
I'm not sure what happened, but eHarmony things are coming out of the woodwork. It's almost like the moment I gave up, and stopped caring, things happened...kind of like real life, I guess.

So, from my previous post:
Guy #1 (Bears tickets) just got really boring. His messages seem really....friendly. Not romantic.
Guy #2 (major hopeful) started communication, and we just exchanged the first stage of communication, multiple choice questions. Still a go.
Guy #3, someone I haven't talked about, but seems rock'n. I tested the FastTrack, and it totally worked! This is a crazy story, stay tuned once it's a little more developed.

Still Nudging anytime I have the option, just for fun. Investigating the possibility of being matched with someone after they fill out a profile, before they pay, and therefore, can't respond. Not sure if this is true, I'll let you know.

In honor of my upcoming birthday, I edited my age range. While I am 26, my age range is 25-35. Since I will be officially one year older on Tuesday, I increased my range to 26-36. That's right, I AM willing to date someone 9 years older than me...it runs in my family. This let to 3 new matches, right away. Hmmmm.

27th Birthday

2006-09-12T09:11:00.000-05:00

This is my mom and I back in April when I moved here. Her birthday was 2 days ago. If you are at North Texas, stop by the bookstore and wish her happy birthday.
-----------------------

If you ever move away from your friends and family, plan to spend your birthday with them. It is so strange to be here, in Chicago, with my best girlfriends spread all over the country, my family in Texas. Even though I am developing some friendships here, I'm not in the mood for a party with people I hardly know.

Yes, this blog was written during a pity party.

It could be september 11th. I don't know why, but it really get's to me each year. Then, my birthday being the next day is a real bummer. Today, between the specials on tv, moments of silence, and the Presidential Address, I don't feel like the birthday girl.

It could be the number 27. Although it is divisible by 3 and 9 (both very good numbers), it's not the rock star feeling I was going for.

It could be the thus far unfruitful internet dating experience. I mean, if you don't already feel lame for not being able to get normal dates, get turned down by people who've never even met you. That's a party.

On the up side, I have been jogging a little. And my dad will be in town for business this week. I'll get to see him for about 6 hours, but it'll be worth it.

Every year, on my birthday, I secretly hope that someone, even my sister, would send me flowers. It hasn't happened since high school. I'll survive somehow.

So, for now, I'll continue reading my 'chic lit' book, in my robe, on the sofa, listening the soundtrack to A Lot Like Love, and dreaming about the chocolate covered espresso beans Lisa sent me, which I will eat all day in honor of my birth.

eFish-or-cut-bait

2006-09-11T19:12:00.000-05:00

This picture is Laura and I at a big retirement party last week for a friend of ours that retired from 24 years as a fireman the same town. It was a throw down, to say the least.

No, I didn't get to keep the pants.
-------------------------------------
So, I had it. I logged on to my eHarmony, and I had 5 dudes that it had been more than 7 days since I'd heard from. Plus, in combination with the comment from a viewer the first week of September about being matched with someone who hasn't paid (I'll explain that later), I decided it was time to clean house. I had 11 pending contacts, and I Nudged every one of them that was eligable.

Cleaning house =
4 nudges (including 1 repeat from the first nudge)
2 Closures sent
2 closures accepted

Thus far, the nudge is not turning out to be very productive, on any front. For experimental perposes, I will continue to Nudge, as soon as it's an option, and see how long it takes to be annoying. Any guesses? Remember, I can nudge every 7 days.

Meaninglessness

2006-09-08T21:49:00.000-05:00

Muir Woods, North of San Francisco, 2 weeks ago. These are Redwood trees that can grow up to 370 feet tall. Talk about making you feel tiny in God's creation...
------------------------------------------------------------

I have been haunted for a few weeks that several of the things I love or or strive for may be attempts to seek value and ultimately may have no meaning after all. Especially the things I DO: Grilling. Reading. Writing. Blogging. Photography. Making Videos. Jogging. Eating well. Cleaning. Calling my family regularly. Watching movies. recycling. paying my bills. maintaining my car. matching my clothes. decorating. scrapbooking. sending emails. helping people. attending church. going to work.

I am not saying these things have no value. I am just questioning my intentions.

The answer, I have known all along, but now it means more to me.

I haven't sent a personal blog in a while, I know. Not that all of you are hanging on each emotional moment of my life, but, this is what has been going through my head:

I was listening to a podcast from The Village Church from the series on Ecclesiasties. It got thinking that anything I try to find value in will still leave me right here tomorrow. Let me explain. If my life's value gets tied up in trying to be a minimalist, recycling, or watching less tv (all things I do), I will get nowhere. Even if I succeed today, tomorrow I will be starting all over again. I will never get ahead.

The other end of this thought is to do nothing as a result. Well, this leaves you perpetually, increasingly dis-satisfied and hallow the more you do 'nothing.' Yes, you may be able to fool yourself for a while, but eventually, you will be alone and it will sink in.

So, this leaves me in the middle: Praising God that my meaning is tied up in anything I DO here on earth. Praising God that my meaning comes from Him and his love for me. Praising God that I can enjoy going to work, using my mind, cleaning, and all the things I have opportunities to do because I like them. That's God's grace.

eHopeful update

2006-09-07T23:18:00.000-05:00

This was taken in North Cali a week ago. I had to get these pants on film. Notice the shirt is made to match.
---------------------
So, FYI, I actually wrote this Tuesday. By the time you read it, my heart might be broken.

So to date, I've had 41 matches.
31 have been closed.

Of the open ones:
3: waiting for them to start communication
5: waiting for a response (no response again...)
1: open communication I haven't heard from in a week

And these are the hopeful ones:
1: guy I've been exchanging open communication with...not sure...
1: new match I've had today, that sounds AWESOME!

So, of the hopefuls, if I haven't heard from the first one in a few days, that's normal. He dropped a hint that one of his coworkers gave him free Bears tickets, and I dropped a hint that it sounds SO fun, and surely SOMEONE would go. waiting to see.

Guy #2, let's call him 6'3". Well, 6'3", on his profile, he sounds like me, but more energetic. Sounds good to me.

Also, I'm starting an experiment to see what happens if I choose the fastrack. Stay tuned.

Illinois Honky Tonk

2006-09-06T20:39:00.000-05:00

I went to my first Chicago area Honky Tonk last weekend. For your viewing pleasure, I have put together a little table comparison of my former country dancing experiences in Fort Worth, TX and Cadillac Ranch this weekend. Don't get me wrong, my roommate and I had a great time, but this turned out to be our scouting trip. Before we go again, I need to take at least 1 lesson, buy some boots, and bring my A game.

"This is a whole 'nother kind of country dancing"

eHarmony update

2006-09-05T00:41:00.000-05:00

Not sure if I told you, but I have officially "nudged" someone. It was about a week ago, and I've gotten no response. I didn't really expect a good response. I think I expected the dude to "close communication."

No response. This is almost insulting. It says "I'm not interested in you, but I'm also SO not interested that I won't even bother closing communication."

On the other hand, I have been exchanging open messages with 1 guy. He seems cool, fun, busy, intelligent, interesting. The catch-20 with the kind of guy I should date, according to my "dating profile" is that they have their own lives and are busy. This does not bode entirely well for the internet dating realm.

I just discovered the "Fast Track" communication option, and stay tuned for those results.

*photos courtesy NZgirl

End of the Spear

2006-09-04T14:11:00.000-05:00

I finally saw End of the Spear.

I had heard: that it was well done, better that a lot of former Christian movies, based on a true story, and very moving.

It was true. You should know that I am not a crier. I can get involved in movies, and have been known to occasionaly shed a tear over a moving father/daughter story.

I cried like a baby. If you have not seen this movie, you should put it at the top of your rent list. Don't expect to be entertained. Don't expect to feel good.

Expect to be challenged, enthralled, and inspired by this story of men that reach other men by sacrifice and loving them, to the very end.

Loved it.

Initiating Matches

2006-09-02T10:44:00.000-05:00

First, how do we get matches in eHarmony?
"Who knows where [matches] come from? They just appear..."
-Empire Records

You cannot search for anyone in eHarmony. The matches come to you...In no apparent pattern or consistent timing.

So, things brings us to the first choice: initiate communication, or wait?

Well, I started off wide eyed and full of enthusiasm. So, without thinking much about it, I initiated communication. This isn't a big deal, except that there is a little line right under the other person's picture telling them which one of you started it. So, if I started it...The note will always be there.

Do I care? Well, I didn't think I did. So, I tested it, and stopped initiating. This is what happened:
1) All the ones I initiated are now at a stagnate (see Nudge post)
2) 3 dudes that intiated communication are now past the first group in levels of communication in less time.

hmm. For now, I think I will continue to do the waiting. That's me: Lady in Waiting.

Footnote: I am very disppointed that the following words are not in the blogspot.com dictionary: "Dudes"
"Hmm"
What is this world coming to?

New words

2006-09-01T20:17:00.000-05:00

This is my friend Ginny and I last weekend in the San Fran Hostel. It was my first stay in a Hostel, and it lived up to all my expectations. Twice, I was mistaken for a foreigner. Success. It was like the most fun hotel I ever stayed in. I love community, and I think hotels are boring. This was just for me.

Check out this link:
http://www.webster.com/info/new_words.htm

to see some new words that are officially added to Webster.com. What's your favorite?

No Finish Line

2006-08-31T09:24:00.000-05:00

This is for those of you with a case of the Monday's. Laura found this web page:
http://www.inspire21.com/site/home1.html

At first, I thought they were demotivators. But, no, someone actually thought that was inspiring. Still not sure why.

E-Harmony stats update

2006-08-29T12:39:00.000-05:00

Note to self: do not accidentally send the first Open Communicatoin BLANK. Oops. Well, we'll see what happens with that.

Stats update:
Closed Matches: 29
Active Matches: 8
Not yet communicated: 1 (waiting)
Waiting on first questions: 3 (some of these have been over 7 days, and may RIP soon)
Stage 3 waiting for response: 1
Open communication waiting for first responses back: 1
Accidentally sent blank, initial open message: 1
Soon to be open: 1

So, things have been busy. I've received messages from several people that have tried internet dating in the last 3 years, enjoyed it, but it didn't end up working out for them. hmmm.

Also, since I will probably have Open Communication with at least 3 people by next week...it is starting to feel like I'm cheating on everyone. I've never actually dated multiple dudes at time. Not that I really count this as dating, yet...But isn't that the point?

For now, I'm going out of town for 5 days, with minimal computer access from the mountains. Rock 'n Roll

Road Rage

2006-08-28T21:54:00.000-05:00

This week, we have a write-in from my roommate, Laura Rogers:

I don't know if it was weird, but it was fascinating! In traffic yesterday morning, this guy was trying to get over into our lane, but we drove past him without letting him because it appeared he had crammed himself up under the truck in front of him and wouldn't be able to clear the bumper. Well, he flipped us off full force when we passed him. Two seconds later, (when he had unwedged himself) we thought, "We'll show you and give you all the room in the world to get in ahead of us". So we gave him space.. he WOULD NOT take it. He looked back, with his blinker on, wheels turned to enter our lane, and waved us past. I could not believe the spectacle of pride and shame.

What's the wierdest/most interesting thing that you've seen this week?

First Open Communication

2006-08-26T20:27:00.000-05:00

Today was a big day. Today was the first time I got to participate in "Open Communication". I like to also call it "freestyle" or "freeform" or "ackward."

This is how it went down:

I was so excited, because this dude, who seems normal, interesting, blah, blah, well, we were moving right along up the communication tree. Well, for the last 2 days, I have been delaying the Open Communication. The catch? Well, because of the back and forth nature of the questions, and some simple math, one person initiates the match, and other person is forced to send the first open ended message. Talk about pressure.

So, there I was, sitting at my kitchen table, staring at my computer, the letters on my backspace key slowing wear off...when I realized I was paralized by the paradox of trying to be myself, yet not too sarcastic (since that's hard to relay in type if you don't know me), yet myself, yet not to scary, yet my charming self (sarcasm again).

I finally sent it. How do I feel? Like I just sent a note to the cute boy in class. I am watching it get passed under desks. I'm hoping, for my own pride, that he doesn't get the note, laugh, and show everyone.

Life goes on.

Dr. Warren's Message

2006-08-25T23:46:00.000-05:00

I know, I have kept you waiting so long. Well, now you know what it's like to be me. The screen shot above is the intro for Dr. Warren's message. After this, he goes very indepth into these important points:

Always Use Your Best Judgment
Be Cautious Sharing Personal Information
Do your Own Research
Make Your First Date Safe and Successful
Take Your Time
Always be Respectful and Kind
Report Concerns About a Match to eHarmony

Thanks for that.

Working From Home

2006-08-25T09:50:00.000-05:00

Today was a milestone. I was allowed to work from home for the first time since working for this company a year ago.

2 hours into the day: I had 6 cups of coffee and had finish about 4 hours of work.

I love it. Lisitening to my iTunes on 1 computer while I hack away on the other.

It will be hard to go back to the office next week.

E-Communication Explained

2006-08-24T22:29:00.000-05:00

Okay readers, if you are going to stay tuned and keep up, you will need to know the various levels of eHarmony Guided Communication.

Now, once you click a match, you can "Read his About Me" page. It contains such enthralling topics as: 3 relationship strenghts, the most important thing he is looking for in a match, the first thing you'll notice when you meet the person, and 3 best life skills. There's more, but I won't bore you.

I don't find this page very helpful. Partially since the computer has usually basically matched you on these stats and more, anyway.

Once one of you decides this situation has hope, someone clicks Send 1st Questions. This begins an exchange of 5 multiple choice questions (choose from a long list of questions and responses provided), and the other person answers.

Then Must Haves and Can't Stands are exchanged. These are top 10 things in each category. This, too is pretty consistent with the initial read me page.

Next is to exchange 3 short answer questions. This is exciting because you can ask whatever you want, and answer however you want.

I should tell you that in my first 2 weeks, almost no matches have gone beyond the short answer stage. My roommate, however, has 3 matches going strong in the next stage: Open Communication. More on that soon.

PS-at anytime, you can close a communication. This is kind of fun because you can choose a reason from a long list. If they are too short (which happens often), I usually choose "too much physical distance." Hey, don't judge me. You are reading a blog about internet dating.

E-Nudge

2006-08-22T22:10:00.000-05:00

So, first I was sad. After 7 days, no response from this dude. I was just about to cut him loose (otherwise known as, "Close the Match"). I signed on today, and my roommate (we always share daily updates-obviously) noticed a new option. At the top of his profile, there was this button (pictured above).

What? The note says something about the dude not responding to me within 7 days. If I click this button, he will get an email "reminding him that you are still interested in continuing Guided Communication, and a nudge message will appear next to your name on his My Matches page."

My roommate, Laura's, response,"Who knew there would be a nudge option!?!?"

Great, so now, I will not only be rejected and ignored, I will also be annoying and unable to take a hint! So many options....What will I do?

FYI: once you send a "Guided Communication" response to someone, your only response is to wait for them to respond or "Close the Match."

So, this means my choice is to wait more, close the match, or "Nudge". There's another factor: I initiated this match, so...I'm probably more likely to wait a week to see what he does. I'm going out of town anyway this weekend.

In other news, I do have 2 dudes that I'm about to begin "Open Communication" once I "Read Dr. Warren's Message". Stay tuned.

e-dating update

2006-08-19T12:33:00.000-05:00

My roommate and I have been a member for 7 days.
I have received 35 matches so far.
That's an average of 5 matches per day.
I am communicating with 9 of them right now.
I have closed 26 matches so far.

Stipulations:
**If a dude is under 6'0", I will probably automatically close the match.
**If he's 5'11", I wait, and see if he's interested, but usually, 5'11" dudes don't choose 5'11" chics. I'm okay with that. No matter what my friend Brady says.
**Occasionally, I get matches more than 60 miles away, and cut those, too.

eHarmony Update

2006-08-16T00:05:00.000-05:00

So, this will be short, but eHarmony might be the best entertainment money I've ever spent. For about a dollar a day, you can get excited about dating someone without all the work.

I'm "communicating" with 5 dudes. I have about 15 "Closed" "Matches," most of whom were under 5'10" and some of whom were too far away.

Every morning, I get more matches. I don't know how, but it magically happens. So, I will say that I feel like the matches are getting better over time. Today, I started "communicating" with a 6'4" CPA Football player. I'll let you know.

Plus, "the scientific matching method" took me seriously when I ranked beliefs as the #1 important factor.

No dates yet, stay tuned, we are getting close.

Life update

2006-08-13T20:38:00.000-05:00

Took this picture in Fremont, WA, just North of Seattle.

--------------------------------
So, I know I've been gone for a while. Here's the update:

Brady and Amber were in town a week ago. It was great. Walked about 20 miles in 3 days. I'm just now sleeping normal hours again.

House-sat for my boss, with my roommate for 2 weeks. Easy money. It was nice to have a pet and then give it back. I forgot how much I actually like house and pet sitting.

Looking for a part-time job. Partially, I need something to pay for my travel habit, and I need to pay some extra on my debt, and that will only come from another job.

Lastly, I'm all hyped up on pain killers right now. Threw out my back about 2 months ago, and it's giving me lots of trouble. Been to the doctor, there's not much that can be done right now. It's muscular. And, I'm supossed to get a massage. Doctor's orders! The pain killers I'm on are from the wisdom tooth surgery last fall. I'm kind of having an out of body experience right now.

Going to North Cali in 2 weeks. SO looking forward to it. I'll get to see my good friend Ginny before she starts heading to Guatemala.

As always, life i----Oh, and my roommate and I signed up for eHarmony. The rules:
Anyone that's a "match" and is over 6'0", we have to at least send a message, and if it gets to it: go on 1 date with them. I think at the minimum, this will produce some good blogs. We were both really wondering what kind of matches we would get here in Chicago Land. I'll let you know how it goes.

Pop, Soda, Coke?

2006-08-02T10:41:00.000-05:00

This is amazing. Looks like some guy at East Central University polled 120,464 people in America and created a map of the US, by county, based on responses. Check it out:

http://www.popvssoda.com/countystats/total-county.html

Memphis

2006-07-30T18:44:00.000-05:00

Best burger in Memphis:

Recent trip to Memphis, check out the video:

http://media.putfile.com/4th-of-July-2006-86-92

Seattle

2006-07-27T22:08:00.000-05:00

This week, God reaffirmed that I have the coolest job in the world, and the coolest job, and I don't deserve it at all.

I spent the last 3 days in Seattle, WA, for work. That means my company paid for it. Even the meals.

Life is good. I was here for 3 days and 2 nights. The first night, I swung by Pikes Market, took more great pictures, visited the first Starbucks, avoided fish puddles, and ate at the restaurant overlooking the Bay.

You should know that the first day I was here, it was 95'. The first night I was here, it was the hottest night on record, ever, in Seattle. I thought I was actually in hell when I was at the fish market, it reeked, and was so hot. Then, I went to a restaurant, that had NO air conditioner. Had my first fish and chips, a little over-rated.

Night 2, I went to Fremont, the cool artsy organic part of town. Loved it. Very cool. Very eclectic. Remembered why I hate carbonated water.

Times like this, I'll never complain again....

Greek I

2006-07-26T22:09:00.000-05:00

I am Greek. No, not in a big fat wedding kind of way. More of a embroidered sweatshirt secret handshake kind of way.

I have wrestled with my identity, role, and responsibility in and to the Greek community ever since I became a member in 1998.

To update some of you "independents," I was initiated in 1998 to a nationwide sorority. Once initiated, you are a member for life. That's right, for better or worse, I am a Greek.

My sorority has a very active alumnae, seasonal magazine, store, conventions, and philanthropy, lots of philanthropy. My house was the top fundraiser on our campus and considered the house least like a stereotypical sorority.

During college, my sorority was key for me developing good friendships and navigating campus life. They also filled a void I had for civic participation and community service.

Now, as an alumnae, I have tried passively, for years to find value in the organization. I would like to say that I have found the answer, but I haven't.

Now as I read the latest magazine, I am saddened by how far apart I have grown from this organization I committed to. Is a sorority like a tattoo which is almost always regretted later? Does everyone grow this bored, disappointed, and disconnected from an organization which pledges lifelong loyalty?

I am currently challenged to find a woman who has found value in her alumnae status. Not someone who's life is the sorority and has nothing else to do...But a woman who has chosen the sorority for a valuable reason.

For now, I struggle with this half-hearted relationship while I prepare for a DTR.

PSA

2006-07-21T18:54:00.000-05:00

Once again, I am going to say what so many of us are thinking:

Women have received the short squatty end of the public restroom stick. It occurred to me the other day, as I was balancing myself on my elbows in the airplane lavatory, that the men I know will never know what it is like to go into a public restroom, shields up, acrobatic moves ready, and with a sigh of disgust.

Okay, I'm jumping ahead. When a woman enters a public restroom, she has a choice:

1. SIT
risk: High biological risk of actually catching something as a result of the last person. High emotional risk of worrying about diseases all day.
comfort: depends on you OCD level, but generally high muscular comfort.
acrobatics: none

2. SQUAT
risk: none
comfort: none
acrobatics: must be able to keep purse from getting stolen while keeping it dry, don't drop anything in the toilet, aim, hover, keep clothes from touching the toilet bowl or floor, and keep muscles relaxed enough to actually accomplish the original mission.

My point is, if you are a male, count your blessings very time you go into a restroom, and don't actually have to touch a single surface of the restroom (whereas women have to touch at least 4).

In honor that, this video is of a man who dives into the urinal-trough as part of a bet. Don't worry, he cashed out, big.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gi9ahpMJhBY

Look at me

2006-07-11T22:14:00.000-05:00

Me and Ricky Bobby. Yeah, I know. It's awesome.

Language

2006-07-10T21:55:00.000-05:00

"But human language is a sign, a trace, of a divine language" p.57
Christian Guide to Contemporary Thought and Culture, by Gene Edward Veith, Jr.

This quote makes me think about how frustrated I am with language.

In elementary school, my name was always on the board for talking in class. In high school, I spent most my time writing, passing, or reading notes. In college, I studied Communications. So, you'd think I was some kind of expert.

I am continually frustrated by the limits of the English language. For a while, I thought I needed to just learn another language that had more words to describe. Then, I started making up words and combing others to convey the meaning I wanted.

Now, I'm coming to terms with the concept that people developed language. People are sinful. Things we touch aren't perfect. Language is full of faults.

Life goes on, and there are bigger things to worry about. thanks for listening.

LA

2006-07-09T21:37:00.000-05:00

About a month ago, I visited Los Angeles, saw some friends, went out on a boat, and did some other fun things. Check it out:

http://media.putfile.com/Loa-Angeles-Memorial-Day-Trip

For those of you wondering, I did go on the second part of a blind date that started months ago. To quote a mentor of mine,"I broke up with a good man." Long story short, this was the guy that I should have dated. This man loves the Lord, has his life together, values community...yet, it wasn't meant to be.

Yes, he was the one with the boat.

To quote my friend Ginny,"Another bus will come..."

2006-07-08T21:48:00.000-05:00

It takes me forever to read a book, especially good writing. I will read, let it marinate for a week, read, etc. Plus, I'm a slow reader.

As such, I always end up weeks behind in devotionals. I have zero desire to rush ahead until I am totally through dwelling, taking notes, chewing, and blogging on each thought.

Funny how contradictory this is to the way I do everything else in my life: the super-fast-efficient way.

I'm destined to be frustrated. Torn between the philosopher in me and the efficient do-er.

2006-07-07T21:31:00.000-05:00

There is no shortage of personalized plates in the Chicago area...

"The new model for intellectual achievement is a dazed couch potato watching tv." p. 61

A Christian Guide to Contemporary Thought and Culture by Gene Edward Veith, Jr.

2006-07-01T22:36:00.000-05:00

More Chicago Lessons:

Chicago Lesson #71: CASH. It's all about the cash here. If you are eating out in a group, don't even THINK about paying part of the bill with a card. The waitress will glare at you, and someone else will instantly offer to loan you the cash. It's almost as if Cards don't exist in restraunts or bars.

Chicago Lesson #72: BOX FAN. If you own 1 or 2 fans, you can easily, and I mean EASILY make it to July 2nd and only turn your air conditioner on 3 or 4 days.

Chicago Lesson #73: Geese are mean and will attack you. At first, I thought geese were like any other submissive and startled wild animal...I was wrong. While jogging, they WILL come after you, hiss, and try to snap chunks of meat off your leg. Let's just say I my aim has gotten better.

Chicago Lesson #74: purses are for wimps. Women here do not carry purses. Ever. I have been trying to figure out where they keep their stuff. I have come to this conculsion: they don't have any stuff. All they carry is cash and car keys. What's up with that?

Chicago Lesson #75: If you are interested in a guy, you must ask ALL of the following questions, no matter what you think..a) Does he live with his girlfriend? b) Where are his kids? c) How far away is the ex-wife?

Grundy County Races

2006-06-26T20:51:00.000-05:00

Recently, my roommate and I went to the races with some friends. Oh, yeah, and it was a cold 50' night in June, too. We climbed in a out of many race cars and won and lost some money.

Check out the video my roommate made:

http://media.putfile.com/Grundy-County-Races

The Breakup

2006-06-25T00:18:00.000-05:00

This is Laura and I at the Grundy County Races with the winning car and driver of the night.

With a series of break-ups among friends, and then the recent blockbuster movie, the question is up,"Have you ever been in-love or loved someone you aren't with?"

I didn't really take the question very seriously. After a little thought, however, I realized I have. Weird. Hindsight is 20/20.

I'm not saying i have regret. I'm also NOT calling anyone from my past anytime soon.

I AM, however, encouraged to remember a time when I really cared for a man. I'm also encouraged by the memory that I knew how much I cared for this person and also knew, without a doubt, that it wasn't meant to be.

Where does this leave this formerly bittering single going on boring dates? Hopeful that I will love again and be just as certain that it will and can be meant to be.

Lies I Believe

2006-06-24T00:04:00.000-05:00

This is me, at the Grundy County Racetrack (in Illinois). Yes, I had to get in Dukes of Hazard style, and yes, it was awkward.

Generally, I believe that those who love me have good intentions and still hurt me, even when they may not mean to. Translation: I cannot really trust or count on others.

Do I apply this to my relationship with the Lord? Yes, unfortunately. I beleive he genuinely knows what's best for me, but I will ultimately be disapointed.

Example: husband. A dear college friend of mine believes we were created relational and therefor God has someone for most of us. I don't think so. I sometimes think I've passed on my opportunities to settle for something good. I've actually decided that, if given the choice, I'd rather be single long term than settle for just good.

Note: by good, I am not refering to a person's perfection. I am refering to the gut feeling that you know you care about someone and have a connection.

So, all this above is some kind of lie. The truth is: God provided for me before I was created. I just feel unprovided for when I am feeling unsatisfied or impatient.

BAM. Take that for a perspective change. I sure don't believe it yet, but it is a start.

Chicago Lessons

2006-06-22T23:55:00.000-05:00

This is Laura and I on June 10th. That's right. June, and we are wearing fleece and freezing our butts off. More on that later.

Chicago Lesson # 62: People here drink a lot of beer. Everything about beer is bigger and better. The tap handles at bars are all crazy and look like canoes, telephones, geese, etc. There's a saying that Chicago is a beer town with a sports problem. I've seen it. It's true.

Chicago Lesson #63: Do not pack up your long sleeve shirts. June 12th, it could be a high of 55 degrees and a low of 40 with lots of wind and rain. This is normal.

Chicago Lesson #64: Tanning here is hard. 1 hour of Texas sun = 15 hours of Chicago sun. When you finally do start to tan, it looks much more bronze and orange. Weird.

Chicago Lesson #65: Buy a box fan. You can make it to at least June 15th without using your air conditioner.

Chicago Lesson #66: There are over 50 car racetracks within the state of Illinois.

Busy Picture

2006-06-21T23:50:00.000-05:00

So much is going on in this picture:
1) Amber (blonde) is actually posing for the picture
2) Adam is being a guy/big brother type that he is
3) Natalie (between Amber and Adam) has jumped into the picture
4) The picture is actually of the girl in the dreads with the white yarn braded in on the left.

Memorial Day

2006-06-20T23:43:00.000-05:00

I'm on top of the world!--another picture from LA.

Josh 4:1: The Lord had the Israelites set up a memorial so that when people asked, they would remember and tell them the story of parting the Jordan.

Brilliant. So, the first question to myself is: What could I set up a memorial for? The most importatnt thing the Lord has done for me was calling me to have an intimate relationship with him thanks to Jesus dieing on my behalf and raising from the dead.

How the heck do I set up a memorial to that? Plus, I'm such a snob, I have to avoid any cliche' or "cool christianity". I'd like it to be a real, genuine memorial. Something that people will ask about.

This is too big to decide right this moment. And, of course it will NOT be a tattoo.

Ideas? Comments?

Airports

2006-06-15T23:36:00.000-05:00

This is another picture from LA: my friend Natalie and I. Love ya Nat!

written while traveling to LA, before 2 3-hour delays:

I love airports. I can't really put it into sentences. But, think about a place that you like. You are drawn to it. It could be a store, nature, someone's home, a region of the country or world...One of my places is an airport. It almost doesn't matter which one (though I do love Chicago O'Hare and Hartford Connecticut).

Something about the mystery, sense of adventure, and potential all balled up in one location FULL of energy. People walking with bags from work, to vacation, from family, new beginnings, old flames, goodbye's, hello's, kids, seniors, I love it ALL.

And of course, if you are a people watcher, an airport is an all you can eat buffet:
It's one of those places where fashion knows no boundaries or rules. Neither does personal space, volume, or topic of conversation.

It's the only place I can think of that dares me to wear whatever I want and be whomever I wish.

New Apartment

2006-06-11T17:24:00.000-05:00

Hello friends!

Well, my roommate and I finally got our act together, and we have put together a little video for you guys at home.

NOTE: It's about 8.5 minutes, so bring a coke.

Enjoy!

http://media.putfile.com/New-Apartment-84

Handicap Parking

2006-06-10T23:25:00.000-05:00

This is my friend Amber A and I in LA Harbor Memorial Day weekend. We are on my friend Clay's boat.

When I was in the airport going to LA, I overheard a group of college students laughing at a Porsche one of them had seen parked in a handicap space.

At first, I also laughed "How dare they claim to be handicapped when they can obviously take care of themselves enough to by such an expensive car?"

Ouch, where did that come from? Where did I get the idea that people that park in handicap spaces are poor?

What we (Americans) really think, in a land where you can buy a new social class if you get tired of your old one is, "If you can buy that car, why can't you 'fix' your handicap and buy your way out?"

I'm so grossed out by this right now. Partly, I can't believe I thought this way for so long. Also, I can't believe it's part of our culture to do so. Pardon me while I go throw up.

China Story

2006-06-05T21:37:00.000-05:00

Okay, so some friends of mine are in China right now (Ni Hao!), and following is a juicy tidbit of a funny story that happened last week to an American Dude in a Chinese Hotel:

"Here is a funny story that happened to me, followed by some highlights of
the last couple of days. We’ve been here a week and I’m already in
desperate need of some laundry, especially underwear. Jimmy told us that
the hotel has a laundry service for pretty cheap, so I decided to give it a
shot. The deal is that you fill out a form and take your laundry to the
front desk. The form was in both English and Chinese, so you think that
there would be no problem. It had shorts, t-shirts and socks all listed,
but there was nothing for ‘underwear’. Jimmy said to take it down there
and the front desk would help me. So, I took a Wal-mart bag full of
laundry and the form downstairs to get help. When I pulled out the form at
the front desk they told me to wait and the manager made a phone call.
Apparently there is a ‘laundry lady’ on staff. So, while waiting for
her to come down, about 5 other staff members gather around the desk. Once
the ‘laundry lady’ showed up, she started speaking Chinese really loudly and the
manager explained to her what I was there for. I showed her the form and
the bag of laundry. She started pulling out the laundry piece by piece,
holding them up for the rest of the world to see and then placing them on the
counter while another lady marked the form. She started with my shorts (2
pair) then some t-shirts (3) and then my underwear. ALL SIX PAIRS, ONE BY
ONE. The staff got a real kick out of it and laughed uncontrollably.
I was a little embarrassed to say the least. Hopefully this will not
cause an international incident."
-
Hope you enjoyed it as much as I did.

Church of Oprah

2006-05-22T21:12:00.000-05:00

So, some of us have theories about Oprah. Here's one I found interesting: (Thanks Lisa!)
It's a bit of a read, but I can vouch that the first 3/4 are well worth it.

The divine Miss Winfrey?
By Ann Oldenburg, USA TODAY

After two decades of searching for her authentic self - exploring New Age theories, giving away cars, trotting out fat, recommending good books and tackling countless issues from serious to frivolous - Oprah Winfrey has risen to a new level of guru.

She's no longer just a successful talk-show host worth $1.4 billion, according to Forbes' most recent estimate. Over the past year, Winfrey, 52, has emerged as a spiritual leader for the new millennium, a moral voice of authority for the nation.

With her television pulpit and the sheer power of her persona, she has encouraged and steered audiences (mostly women) in all matters, from genocide in Rwanda to suburban spouse swapping to finding the absolute best T-shirt and oatmeal cookie.

VOTE: Is Oprah a spiritual leader for the new millenium?
"She's a really hip and materialistic Mother Teresa," says Kathryn Lofton, a professor at Reed College in Portland, Ore., who has written two papers analyzing the religious aspects of Winfrey. "Oprah has emerged as a symbolic figurehead of spirituality."

On Monday, Winfrey shares one of her most ambitious events of the past year -Oprah Winfrey's Legends Ball- as a special on ABC (8 p.m. ET/PT). It lets viewers in on a weekend in which she invited 25 legendary black women and other guests to her home in Montecito, Calif., for a luncheon, ball and gospel brunch in their honor.

It was something she spent a year planning and describes as one of the "greatest moments" of her life. She appears on The View on Friday to talk about the special.

"This weekend was the fulfillment of a dream for me: to honor where I've come from, to celebrate how I got here, and to claim where I'm going," Winfrey says on her website. And now, as Winfrey "lives her best life," as her TV motto says, we get to experience it with her.

Although the concept of the Rev. Oprah has been building through the years, never was it more evident than this season of her talk show, during which she conducted the public flogging of author James Frey. Feeling stung and embarrassed after endorsing his memoir about addiction, A Million Little Pieces, which turned out to include exaggerations and falsehoods, Winfrey had Frey on the show to do an about-face.

"I left the impression that the truth is not important," she said on the show. "I am deeply sorry about that because that is not what I believe."

It was a watershed Winfrey moment, showing herself as not only a talk-show host with whom you don't want to mess, but also someone who is fully aware of the power of her own image. Think back: She appeared in New Orleans to take on the government after Hurricane Katrina hit last August, and she sent a message to us all about civil rights as she stood by the casket of Coretta Scott King in February. Last week, she shed a tear with Teri Hatcher over sexual abuse memories, and she jumped on the Darfur bandwagon, encouraging viewers to support refugees there.

"She's a moral monitor, using herself as the template against which she measures the decency of a nation," Lofton says.

But while this past year showed Winfrey at new heights, it also was a year that polarized people, particularly after the Frey incident.

"A self-righteous attack dog," wrote arts and culture critic Steven Winn in the San Francisco Chronicle.

"A sanctimonious bully," said media critic Robert Thompson on the PBS NewsHour with Jim Lehrer.

"She puts the cult in pop culture," wrote media critic Mark Jurkowitz in The Phoenix

Winfrey was applauded by many for her public mea culpa and for getting Frey to do the same, but her righteous demand for justice also evoked criticism.

"No one person should have that kind of power to affect markets, politics or anything else," says Debbie Schlussel, a lawyer, conservative columnist and blogger.

Deifying Oprah
Love her or loathe her, Winfrey has become proof that you can't be too rich, too thin or too committed to rising to your place in the world. With 49 million viewers each week in the USA and more in the 122 other countries to which the show is distributed, Winfrey reaches more people in a TV day than most preachers can hope to reach in a lifetime of sermons.

"One of the things that's key," says Marcia Nelson, author of The Gospel According to Oprah, "is she walks her talk. That's really, really important in today's culture. People who don't walk their talk fall from a great pedestal - scandals in the Catholic Church, televangelism scandals. If you're not doing what you say you do, woe be unto you."

In Ellen DeGeneres' stand-up comedy act several years ago, she included a joke about getting to heaven and finding that God is a black woman named Oprah.

Last fall, at the start of this 20th season of The Oprah Winfrey Show, guest Jamie Foxx said much the same thing, but he wasn't joking. "What you have is something nobody can describe," Foxx said to Winfrey on the air. Then he explained about how he told Vibe magazine: "You're going to get to heaven and everyone's waiting on God and it's going to be Oprah Winfrey."

He told her she has "different gears" than most people. "You're on the top of the world, and we really do watch and listen for everything you do and say to kind of get our lives together. It's the truth."

In a November poll conducted at Beliefnet.com, a site that looks at how religions and spirituality intersect with popular culture, 33% of 6,600 respondents said Winfrey has had "a more profound impact" on their spiritual lives than their clergypersons.

Cathleen Falsani, religion writer for the Chicago Sun-Times, recently suggested, "I wonder, has Oprah become America's pastor?"

"I am not God," Oprah said in a 1989 story by Barbara Grizzuti Harrison that ran in The New York Times Magazine titled The Importance of Being Oprah. But at the time, Winfrey called her talk show her "ministry," Harrison wrote. It remains an interview Winfrey says she hates. In a Los Angeles Times interview in December, the talk-show host said that "at every turn everything I said was challenged and misinterpreted."

She declined to be interviewed for this story, and she declined to allow USA TODAY to cover her most recent, and now rare, Live Your Best Life seminars. Tickets, priced at $185 each, sold out in minutes.

Katrina Singleton, 34, paid $450 each for tickets to the February event in Charleston, S.C., which she purchased through a ticket broker. "For Oprah, nothing is too much," she told the Associated Press. "It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience."

At the seminar, according to AP, Winfrey repeatedly spoke of her relationship with God. She even sang a chorus of I Surrender All.

"I live inside God's dream for me. I don't try to tell God what I'm supposed to do," she told the crowd. "God can dream a bigger dream for you than you can dream for yourself."
Claire Zulkey, 26, an Oprah follower who has written about Winfrey in her online blog at zulkey .com, says, "I think that if this were the equivalent of the Middle Ages and we were to fast-forward 1,200 years, scholars would definitely think that this Oprah person was a deity, if not a canonized being."

Marcia Nelson says that it's not going too far to call her a spiritual leader. "I've said to a number of people - she's today's Billy Graham."

Nelson said that concept was most apparent when Winfrey co-hosted the 2001 memorial service held 12 days after the terrorist attacks in New York. She urged the people who filled Shea Stadium that day, and all Americans, to stand strong, rousing the audience by repeating the refrain, "We shall not be moved."

One of Winfrey's most appealing subtexts is that she's anti-institutional, says Chris Altrock, minister of Highland Street Church of Christ in Memphis. He says Winfrey believes there are many paths to God, not just one. After doing his doctoral research three years ago on postmodernism religion, a religious era that began in the 1970s as Christians became deeply interested in spirituality and less interested in any established church, he came up with what he calls "The Church of Oprah," referring to the culture that has created her.

"Our culture is changing," he says, "as churches are in decline and the bulk of a new generation is growing up outside of religion." Instead, they're turning to the Church of Oprah.
"People who have no religion relate to her," Nelson says.

Oprah's own evolution
When Winfrey started in the talk-show business 20 years ago, her goal was to beat Phil Donahue, then the reigning talk-show champ. As the Jerry Springer era of tabloid talk shows came into favor, she vowed to use her show to promote good, not sleaze.

By the late '90s, Winfrey's focus was Change Your Life TV, and a New Age message was more prevalent. She preached making the message of her life - take responsibility, and greatness will follow - the substance of the show. Keep a personal journal, purchase self-indulgent gifts, take time for you - because you deserve it. The notes rang true to millions of viewers.

Debbie Ford's book, The Dark Side of the Light Chasers, shot up the sales charts after Ford appeared on Winfrey's show in October 2000 to talk about aspects of ourselves that we deny but which can be sources of joy and strength.

"I think at the time when she had me and Gary Zukav and a lot of the other spiritual teachers on her show, it was her own journey, and she was taking all of the world on that spiritual evolution," Ford says.

Lately, Winfrey has seemed to focus more on social issues (along with the inescapable talk-show fare of celebrity guests, home and diet makeovers, and marriage and financial troubles).
"She's fabulous. She looks great and is not suffering," Ford says, so it makes sense she isn't exploring New Age philosophies anymore. Instead, Ford says, people now "look to her to find their greatness. She is so real. That's why people are attracted to her - for different reasons. Some people will say her brilliance. Others will say authenticity. Others will say her power. They're seeing part of themselves in her."

Adds Ford, "We're all on Oprah's journey, in a sense."

Maybe not quite "all" of us.

Schlussel says Winfrey followers "are incredibly gullible, bandwagon-jumping trend-slaves." Winfrey, she says, "acts as if her show has 'evolved,' but in fact, she still has the salacious sex and deviance stories, with a psychologist in the audience to make it seem highbrow and give it the kosher seal of approval. If this is the person whose morals we are putting on a pedestal, then America's moral compass is in much need of retuning."

The fact that Winfrey has never been married, never had children and is a billionaire distances her from her audience, Schlussel says. "How could anyone like this be in touch with the average American woman?"

The roots of faith
Lofton points out that any discussion of Winfrey should not be one that criticizes her or how she came to be a spiritual icon for the history books but one that examines how it came to be that way. "Why do we all need her so much? What is wrong with us that we so need this little woman in Chicago?"

Jim Twitchell, a professor at the University of Florida who has written several books about branding and describes himself as a cultural anthropologist, says Oprah reverence makes sense.
"Religion essentially is based on high anxiety of what's going to happen to you." Winfrey pushes the idea "that you have a life out there, and it's better than the one you have now and go get it."
It's most apparent in the setting of her show, Twitchell says.

"The guest is sitting beside her, but what she's really doing is exuding this powerful message of 'You are a sinner, yes, you are, but you can also find salvation.' What I find intriguing about it is it's delivered with no religiosity at all, even though it has a powerful Baptist, democratic, enthusiastic tone.

"It has to do with this deep American faith and yearning to be reborn. To start again."

Postmodernism

2006-05-19T18:53:00.000-05:00

I've been reading Postmodern Times by Gene Edward Veith, Jr. for a few months now. It recommend this book for those of you interested in: 1) "the emerging church" 2) what 'postmodernism' means or 3) what Nicole's reading. It's thick, heavy reading that's as full of meat as my shiner bock chili.

Anyway, the following quote got me thinking,"The old materialism sought to accumulate valuable objects; the new materialism is interested not so much with objects in themselves as with the status they bring and the experiences they represent." p. 58.

I've actually been thinking a lot lately about how I am with stuff. Observations:

I am quality over quantity. Example: my iPod. I'd rather have 1 good one that lasts a long time rather than a million gadgts.
I tend toward comfortable utilitarian style. Example: I could buy absolutely everything I need at IKEA.
I do NOT like nick-nacks, but I will save things from mission trips and decorate with them. And, I will change them out once they loose meaning and something better comes along.

I, ladies and gentlemen, have a case of postmodernism materialism. *gasp* That's right, I am all about my experiences, with a side of minimalism.

For those of you who have studies postmodernism, you might say that this is not what they are saying...blah, blah, blah.

To that I will say that postmodernism rejects universal truths and meaning. Therefore, I say that I decide that postmoderism materialism has meaning to me, and I am it.

I hope at least 1 person out there catches the irony here. :)

Turner Falls

2006-05-15T16:12:00.000-05:00

Click below to check out the video from a little trip to Turner Falls, Oklahoma with the fam last summer.

http://media.putfile.com/Turner-Falls

"Commitments generate feelings..."

2006-05-14T15:44:00.000-05:00

This picture is my friend Jeff's mom and her friend. They came to town for a Reading Convention, and I took them out on the town one night. I don't think they expected me to take them to the historical dive, The Billy Goat Tavern, but everyone's got to have a "double cheezeborger"!

Today at church, my pastor talked about feelings. Feelings freak me out. Most of the time, I don't know what to do with them. I don't trust them as a way to make decisions. This is confuses me, too, because in today's world, feelings=life. Anyway, today's message was about how we should filter feelings through scripture to know what to do with them. One of the things Chris Bell said was

"Commitments generate feelings...Not the other way around."

This got me thinking about all the things I say I'm committed to (Living a life that's glorifying to God, an active lifestyle, a loyal family member, paying off debt...etc). Am I really committed? Do I make choices and really live this way?

I think most of the time, I only seem committed to the minimum choices/actions required. That sure sounds lazy to me.

Looks like it's time again to look at my new priorities since moving here. It's been 3 months here in Chicagoland, and I'm just now having competing priorities. Another transition....

FYI, you can access our Sunday messages via Podcasts.

FYI, you do NOT have to have a MAC or iPod to reap the benefits of iTunes and Podcasts.

Kerr Hall

2006-05-11T19:16:00.000-05:00

This next video clip is from back in my days working for University Housing. Before clicking on the link, you should know that the girl walking up has been told she has a package in one of those boxes.

http://media.putfile.com/Practical-Joke

2006-05-10T21:08:00.000-05:00

The day you've all been waiting for is here. This picture is from 3 weeks ago. My roommate and I went to a Cubs game with some co-workers. We got tickets to a rooftop. If you've ever been, to Wrigley, we were the 1st rooftop to the left of the coreboard. Good times.

There's so much history to this stadium and surrounding area. It's was super cool. For the 7th inning stretch, they actually have famous people come, and everyone sings. I got it on tape...

This is a link to the video I made:
http://media.putfile.com/Cubs-Game

Travel Video

2006-05-09T15:53:00.000-05:00

Click here to watch:

http://media.putfile.com/Travel-Fall-05---Spring-06

This is a video I made of the travel I took Fall 2005 - Feb 2006 enjoy.

Mvelopes Budgeting

2006-05-09T14:07:00.000-05:00

This is my roommate. We were shopping at Bed, Bath, & Beyond and found these awesome silicon oven mits that happen to look like crab pinchers.

Now, Mvelopes:

*It's a new way to budget/balance your checkbook, pay bills
*If you've ever heard of the "envelope budgeting system" and thought it was close, but involved too much cash, you'll love this.

Mvelopes is a Christian-based company that provides "virtual envelopes" within your checking account.

Before, I never took the time to get exact amounts of cash, put them in envelopes, carry those envelopes around, etc. I was occasionally bouncing checks because all my cash was at home, in a drawer. Basically, I repeatedly failed the envelope system. It was too dependent on cash, trips tot he bank, and carrying a million envelopes.

The website will tell you how it works. It does have a yearly cost, but I saved enough money the first month to pay for it.

My checking account balance has gone up, literally, 300%, and I actually have savings. I can budget for as many different things as I want, no envelopes.

I love Mvelopes. On-line budgeting is for me. Did I mention it also pays my bills? Check it out. Click one of the words "Mvelopes."

Furby

2006-05-08T19:31:00.000-05:00

So, my roommate and I are officially weird. We have this scary furby she got from a happy meal.

Well, we hide it all over the place to scare each other. Usually, just about the time I forget about it, I open up the cabinet at 7am for some coffee, and AAAHHH. There it is, staring at me.

Typical Day

2006-05-04T19:03:00.000-05:00

Believe it or not, this is the view outside my apartment living room. I love the flowering trees here. They just done grow them like this in Texas.

Well, I know I've been out. A LOT. But, I'm trying to get back in. Baby steps. I thought I'd start with a typical day. Honestly.

It all starts with the alarm going off at 6:10am. I hit snooze for 10 minutes (that's 2 snoozes on my phone). Then, turn on the coffee pot, jump in the shower. After I get out of the shower, I knock on my roommates door to let her know I'm out. We only have 1 bathroom, and...Well...

So, I get ready in record time...As usually. About 7am, my roommate and I stumble into the kitchen, pour as much coffee as we can fit into our travel mugs, grab a breakfast to-go, and head out to rush-hour.

We take turns driving to work since we work for the same company. And, well, I drove for the first 5 weeks, and she has 2 more to go. So, we jump in her Jimmy, mostly not talking, sipping coffee, and head out. About 7:40, we are at work.

I love to get to work before everyone else. In the 45 minutes before most of my co-workers come in (a lot of them work till 6pm), I get so much work done. I call it my "power work" time.

Some time around 10:45 am, I look up, can't believe the time, and get some ice from the cafeteria to enjoy my last caffeinated beverage of the day. Back to work while I plug in my iPod and concentrate to pound out more work.

For lunch, I heat up whatever curious leftovers I grabbed on my way out the door that morning. I read the paper, listen to my co-workers talk, and try desperately not to go back to my desk early.

Mid-afternoon, I hit the crash. I either: heat up some water and have green tea and wasabi peas OR I have some bottled water with some crystal light and a granola bar.

By 5pm, I'm blowing the doors off that place, and it's rush hour for the next hour. By the time we get home, I'm usually hanging out the window, sunglasses on, hair in a ponytail, dreaming of vacation. If I didn't leave my shoes in the parking lot, I kick them off at the door, change clothes, and start cooking dinner. This is where I WISH I would go work out or something like that. But, there's always tomorrow, right?

Then, I think about how I wish I would update my blog.

And here we are.

2006-04-23T20:22:00.000-05:00

Wow, I know, you were starting to wonder if I was still alive. Well, I am. I can't believe I went almost 20 days without a post. Shame on me. So, I'm all moved in to my new place, still have some random unpacking/donations/selling on ebay/dumpster diving for furniture going on. The next couple posts will be pictures from my move, and stories behind them.

First, thanks to my friend Lisa for doing all the work, we had a little get together (damn the man, save the empire!) to formally send me off. It was great. So great to have so many old friends in one place. I know some of you couldn't make it. That's okay, send me some money, and it will all be okay.
Click here to watch 'Going-Away-Party-'

The picture above is my view half of the time in the Uhaul.

New Things

2006-04-04T20:36:00.000-05:00

This is the ceiling of the Dunkin' Donuts near State & Randolph downtown in The Loop. We were grabbing some Duncachinos with one of the Spring Break Mission Trip teams from Texas.

This was me March 31st:
Life is hard right now. EVERYTHING is new, and that is getting old. New job, with a new boss, desk, files, rules, policies, red tape, expectations, etc. New roommate. New culture. New medical problems and doctors. New church. New friends. New apartment. New town. New roads. New state laws. The list goes on and on.

I'm sure I had some kind of romanticized view of relocation. Glamorous city, fun new place, new adventures...In reality, it is lonely, overwhelmingly stressful, confusing, scary, and intense. I'm not used to crying several days in a row.

I know everything will be okay. I know this is where God wants me to be, right now. But, that doesn't mean I won't cry when my toilets been stopped up for five days, the SIM card in my cell phone goes out, the IRS thinks I owe $245, and I feel inadequate at work.

I can't wait to come home next weekend, see familiar faces, hug my mom, see my dad, dance at Billy Bob's, BBQ at the park, and spend the night. It will be a real answer to prayer and I'm sure to truly appreciate it.

Update:
So, things are still tough. This surprises me because I've tons plenty of hard things in my life, but not usually all at once. I know things will be okay. I know this will pass. But, for now, I will NOT cry, I will write like crazy, keep praying, and call my mom every night.

As of Tuesday, things are good. A lot of the stress of work is starting to level off as I figure out my boss, coworkers, and job. Thanks for your prayers!

Confession

2006-04-02T20:26:00.000-05:00

The Basilica at Notre Dame. I took this from the Altar looking back towards the entryway.

I was reading Voices of the Faithful, by Beth Moore & Friends.

March 22 reads:
"This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him" 1 John 5:14-15

After I read this, I immediately said to myself,"I don't believe that. I want to, but never have. Does Anyone?"

Who out there really believes that God will give you the desires of your heart (according to his will), if you just ask?

Deep in my heart, I probably believe that God gives whatever he pleases. Sometimes he lets me pray for it and see him deliver.

But....The desires of my heart.....Really?

Widgets

2006-03-28T19:24:00.000-06:00

Have you ever felt like something was missing in your life?

Have you wondered if your computer was living up to it's full potential?

Have you found yourself wishing you had more fun/random/useful things on your desktop besides just more icons and shortcuts?

If you answered "yes" to any of the above questions, then I would like to share an opportunity with you. We are looking for smart people, just like you. Can I have your phone number? Just kidding. Seriously, Yahoo! Widgets rock my face.

I have a weather widget, a Chinese symbol clock, a picture frame that changes every minute, something that tells me when my gmail has mail, and so much more! Check it out, you'll thank me later.

They don't seem to be any kind of spyware.
People have added games, useful things, ect.
As soon as I update my Outlook, it will tell me today's things.

Enjoy.

In case you missed it: Click here for Widgets

Hands Free

2006-03-27T19:28:00.000-06:00

"Best $15 I have spent in a long time"

"Look Mom, No hands!"

"I can't believe I waited so long, and it's so amazing and cheap!"

These are just a few of the things I said in my first 24 hours with my new hands free cell phone system. No, it's not Bluetooth (everyone asks that next). One step at a time people!

I was such a slave to my phone before. Now, I have done the following WHILE talking on my cell phone:

put on make-up
cooked an entire meal
cleaned my car
brought in 3 loads of groceries
grocery shopped
drove my car
walked
blogged
checked my email
and many more!

First we said,"What did we do without cell phones?"

Now we say,"How did I survive without my hands free?"

Jabra and I are friends.

More Chicago Lessons

2006-03-26T19:40:00.000-06:00

This is a picture I took from the steps of the Administration Building on the Notre Dame Campus. Laura and I went twice last week for business and got a tour along the way.

Chicago Lesson #35

Socks, socks, socks. You gotta have them. I've gone sockless 3 times since moving here, and regretted it every time. Even if it is 58 out, and a jeans and fleece are plenty to keep you warm, don't even try to pull a Texas and wear flip-flops, loafers, or mules. You'll freeze. Can't explain it. apparently the air 6 inches above the ground is the coldest.

Chicago Lesson #36

Do not let the weather fool you. I WILL go from sunny and warm to windy and bitter in 10 minutes flat. AND it will happen when you are unloading groceries from your car, walking across a college campus, or sitting in a park. In order to avoid victimization by weather, ALWAYS bring a jacket with you in your car or in to work. You won't regret it.

Chicago Lesson #37

Keep your hands in your pockets, especially when downtown and windy. The real trick to staying warm downtown is to keep your gloved hands in your coat pockets. This keeps them warm and toasty while also preventing the gusts of wind from blowing up your sleeves. When purchasing a Jacket, test the pockets and make sure your whole hand fits.

Food Blog

2006-03-26T18:48:00.001-06:00

New posts on "You might be chunky if..." Check out the link on the left.

Food Blog

2006-03-26T18:48:00.000-06:00

New posts on "You might be chuncky if..." Check out the link on the left.

Freakonomics

2006-03-26T17:34:00.000-06:00

L'Bronishanice; Qwinet'z Williams

This is the "black name" given to me by some young women, whom I dearly love, in college who welcomed me into their world of stepping, soul food, new sayings, and other things culturally unfamiliar and wonderful. It was a bit of a ceremony when you received your name. 3 or 4 of them would sit into he dorm lobby in a half circle. Everyone would think of a syllable. Then, in the order they were sitting, your name was formed. I was told my name had all the good letters: L, Q, & Z. P.S. The Z is silent and the semi-colon is signifies a pause. If you want to hear it pronounced, call me sometime.

"...Nearly 30 percent of the black girls are given a name that is unique among every baby, white and black, born that year in California." p. 184, Freakonomics

I just finished the book Freakonomics, by Steven D. Levitt & Stephen J. Dubner. I could have finished it much sooner, but, like a good bowl of pudding, I took my time and let it marinate as I went. What's it about? I'm not directly going to tell you, but I will tell you what I liked about it.

"if morality represents how people would like the world to work, then economics shows how it actually does work."

I learned what factors have a strong correlation to a child's test scores:

The child has highly educated parents.
The child's parents have highly socioeconomic status.
The child's mother was thirty or older at the time of her first child's birth.
The child had low birthweight.
The child's parents speak English in the home.
The child is adopted.

I won't tell you which way they are correlated. Can't go around spoiling the ending now, can I?

I learned all about regression analysis, which is how we can measure things to do with people now that there are laws and the 70's are over.

"The most likely result of having read this book is a simple one: you may find yourself asking a lot of questions." p.206

As a question asker who typically received blank stares when my questions leak out loud, Freakonomics is right on my wavelength. This brilliant look at American culture today has only fed my hunger to know and study more about the social phenomena present in our everyday lives. For those of you who love to look under the blanket of our everyday lives, this book is a delicious seven course meal.

thanks iTunes

2006-03-23T20:37:00.000-06:00

Dear iTunes,

Thank you for your free music track every week. Thank you for the "other listeners also bought" feature. Thank you for looking over my shoulder at what I'm listening to, and adding your own suggestions. Thanks for letting me share my music with 5 people. Thanks for letting me only download 1 song at a time. Thanks for your selection. Please add the Chicago Soundtrack.

Sincerely,
Nicole Williams

PS-I had to borrow a song from my friend because you were trying to make me buy the whole Donny Darko album. Sorry.

2006-03-22T22:07:00.000-06:00

Chicago Lesson # 32

Do not stare, at people or things. If you do, a sign, lamppost, newspaper stand, homeless person, or some other stationary thing will trip you , slam into your face, or stop you dead in your tracks with a severe injury to your pride, I promise.

Chicago Lesson # 33

The I-Pass is not only a convenient way to pay for the toll roads, it is practically the ONLY way to pay. If you pull your car up to a cash drop, there is NO signage as to how much to pay. Further research has revealed that you have to pay DOUBLE if you pay in cash.

Chicago Lesson # 34

Do not swing your arms when you walk downtown. You DO however, have to powerwalk in order to keep your body temperature up. So, somewhere in between those 2 is a walk that keeps you warm and proper arm propulsion that doesn't result in you racking the guy next you. (yes, this has happened to me already)