Chicken Guitar

2008-07-30T14:14:00.000-07:00

I have a new place that I plan to blog in. If you'd like to check it out, send me an email and I'll pass on the address to you. If you don't have my email address, let me know, and we can figure out a way to get in touch. :)

House of Craziness

2008-06-19T12:47:00.000-07:00

We're moving on Saturday! Long story about why I'm not in school anymore...but we decided that since I wasn't, it's time to move back to Seattle.

More details soon. In the meantime, here's a pic of the new man in my life.

Love It. Rock Out.

2007-12-05T18:30:00.001-08:00

Has the Heart Grown Fonder?

2007-11-30T10:49:00.000-08:00

I can't believe how long I've been gone! Gentle Reader, it's been tough without you.

Mini existentialist angst continued, causing me to doubt my choice of future career, myself, and my ability to perform said career. Today I'm feeling a lot better about it all, but I may change my mind in a few weeks. I'm taking next term off to get healthy and strong again, and then I'll be back in the game and hopefully kicking some ass.

I spent most of the month of September in bed. Sadly, not doing naughty things, but recovering from quite a big surgery (I don't think I really realized how big it would be until it was over). I now have a Super Bladder that can withstand the forces of massive amounts of alcohol and caffeine, as well as leap tall buildings, and rescue small kittens in case of emergency. I can provide gory details to those who want them, but I don't want to freak anyone out. I certainly appreciate my abdominal muscles now more than I ever did before, they sure help when you want to do things like take a shower, put your shoes on, sit up...

I'll post again soon, with pictures, and more fun updates. How've you been?

These Modern Times

2007-08-23T01:19:00.000-07:00

I covet the fancy phones I see lately. I don't really NEED a new phone, though, the one I have works fine. I'd love to be able to check email with my phone, or to get directions if I'm lost in Portland (again). I don't think I care about the music options, though. Should I? That seems to be the focus of many of these newfangled contraptions, but I have my reservations about my the device that acts as my "emergency line" being run down because I needed to listen to _Punkrocker_ one last time before class.

Inspiration

2007-08-23T01:11:00.001-07:00

When existential angst is at foot, sometimes you just need someone or something to turn to, a touchstone, a source of wisdom. For me it's always been film adaptations of video games. Thanks to Mortal Kombat I am reminded to that I am in charge of my own destiny. Resident Evil taught me to be scared of skinless zombie dogs, and the Mario Bros. movie is just too amazing for a short mention.

Can you change my mind?

2007-08-02T16:42:00.001-07:00

I just don't like neck tattoos.

Who Knows Japanese?

2007-07-13T21:03:00.000-07:00

The grass is always greener. This is by far cooler than anything I've ever seen a US company put out.
Of course my time in design school is teaching me to be hyper critical of all products I use.

Yum!

2007-07-12T11:29:00.001-07:00

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2003785530_cherries12m.html

Accent

2007-07-11T15:42:00.000-07:00

I can't roll my "r's". No matter how hard I try. Seriously, I've tried. Can you?

2007-07-10T16:51:00.000-07:00

Hi!

Summer has been cruising right along. I've had an eventful couple of weeks...

Souper Sarah came to town and we got to chat, and she shared her addictive comics with me.

I went down to California for my high school reunion. It was surprisingly fun...I guess I'm just surprised at how easy it all was. I thought for sure there would be lots of awkwardness, R was guessing I'd make someone cry. Since I was hurt in the fall, a lot of my high school classmates have never seen me post-injury. It was very enjoyable, though, and fun to visit with people that I've known for years and years (one friend was actually present at my baby shower!). A lot of people seem to be doing really well and are happy, which was great to see. Yay!

While in CA, I picked up my niece and my Gram, and brought them back to OR with me. My parents came over from Montana to pick them up, but stayed a few days so they could visit with me. I am definitely not equipped to entertain a bored 9-year old. I needed a small bike, or some sort of physical toy that would wear her out!
I did explore quite a few parks in Eugene, and we especially enjoyed the ones featuring spraying water features.

The class that I am GTF-ing for seems to be going pretty well. The poor students are overloaded, so evocative yet difficult theory readings are not really on their list of favorites. I think all the lectures have been very interesting, but I wish the readings were a little shorter and less...intense, I guess. Some of these really difficult readings merit discussion afterwards, and that isn't always possible in this format (10 different guest lecturers). I've become the spokesperson for the class, the motto is "everything is related to everything!"

I am trying to get a few people together to float/boat/tube/raft/paddle down the river on Saturday. Holler if you want to come!

2007-06-26T21:18:00.001-07:00

Anyone up for a cross-blog movie watching & review? Hopefully we can watch something a *little* better than the TortureTainment (TM) period. I am more than willing to mix up my Netflix queue, it's pretty random to begin with!

Happy Tidings

2007-06-25T21:47:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to those who sent kind messages on my birthday. I appreciate the messages, and I'm sorry I haven't been in touch much lately. Happy times are here, yes? :) I promise to entertain you with fun-loving content. Such as this.

Bug'd.

2007-06-25T21:42:00.000-07:00

Reading always helps put me relax at night, sometimes to the detriment of R's quality of sleep. For a few years I've been using my swell headlamp to light my efforts. Several nights ago SOMETHING decided to land on my face while I was reading. I'm not super bug phobic, but paired with the darkness and the late hour, I certainly screeched and swatted. I thought this was pretty traumatizing, but after reading about Annie's visitor, I have no complaints. Thank you small Eugeneian bugs.

2007-06-20T20:15:00.000-07:00

Possible side effects include: Jaw bone necrosis. Esphogeal ulceration and rupture. Is it any wonder I can't concentrate on school?

I hear what you're saying, g.

2007-06-18T21:09:00.000-07:00

The bottom line is, we're going to have to drill down to the granular level if we're ever going to achieve these goals.

I wish I were this crazy...

2007-06-18T17:03:00.000-07:00

I dislike pain too much, I fear.

Video.

Needy

2007-06-07T16:24:00.000-07:00

Please indulge my neediness for a moment. R just called to tell me that he is going to miss being here for my birthday, as his work needs him to be in Seattle. I have two finals that day, so I can't accompany him to Seattle...I'll just be sitting here all by my lonesome.

It's a really busy time for just about everyone, so I haven't tried to plan a party or anything. I would really like to do something, though.

I think dinner might be nice. Who wants to come over and cook me dinner? We can finish off all the party beer in the fridge, and there's some sparkly stuff floating around as well. As it gets closer to 6/11, though, I'd be more than happy to just have a bubble tea date or a nice text message. Heck, even a $1.50 movie would be nice!

Reading

2007-06-07T14:30:00.000-07:00

I love it when books make me laugh out loud. It's rare, I've even gotten to the point where I don't laugh out loud at television. The other night I woke R up with my laughter at a paragraph by Michael Chabon, who was describing a character's night spent in the same bed as small children. I think it was this sentence in particular that got me:

"Around dawn, something very bad happens in the baby's diaper."

This is kind of reading like a "you had to be there" moment, but I think readers who are parents will understand. Word.

Turn it up!

2007-05-24T13:09:00.000-07:00

I swear I hear the sound of a bass guitar from next door. If it's true, it would be pretty awesome, because we have a bass sitting in the room closest to their house. Jam together? Woo!

Thinking of throwing a party this weekend. Any locals going to be around?

When It Rains...

2007-05-22T23:20:00.000-07:00

Well, we're all moved in. Unpacking will continue to take some time, as R can't hang up all the shelves I need in one weekend (he's only here 4 days each week). Tony was super-awesome and helped with the heavy lifting, and has won our undying affection. It's really nice to be living away from campus, I really feel like my day at school ends when I can actually get away from there! Can't wait to have a party.

I've been trying to find the box I packed my library books in, as I have a few I want to get started on. I am thankful to a certain blogger for mentioning _Soul Barnacles_, because I had neglected to add that to my list. Below I mentioned reading _How It Used To Be_ by M. Burke Carver...I wish that I was taking a seminar course where we got to discuss great writers, their lives, and possible impact upon their writing (something along those lines). I was impressed with how neutral she could be at times, even when it was clear that Ray had behaved badly. He wanted her to tell it like it really was, and I think she did do that. _Soul Barnacles_ is by Tess Gallagher, who spoke at the UO just a few weeks ago, but I missed her. I think it's going to be extra interesting to read this so soon after HiUTB.

I'm tired. I think I've been off my game for about 7 months now, give or take. Medication mishaps. Thyroid. Pain. Osteoporosis. Yay for side effects!
All of this has caused me to allow my limitations to hold me back, in the past I think that I was fighting a better fight. I am trying not to give in, but I think I'm running out of sports metaphors.

What's new with you?

Surrender

2007-05-10T22:54:00.000-07:00

I am laying down my weapons, and declaring 3leggedcat the winner of the TortureTainment (tm) contest. It all started with "Adam & Eve", then I met his challenge with "Jesus Christ, Vampire Hunter". But I am no match for Mr. Tom. Tonight I was hit with a double blow, I attempted to read The Cat's Meow & I attempted to watchRobot Bastard. It was a mighty battle, but Tom, you are a stronger soul than I. Can I pick the next movie?

Milky & Sweet

2007-05-09T23:23:00.000-07:00

How do you take your coffee?

Thanks, Tom!

2007-04-25T18:15:00.000-07:00

I received a present in the mail Saturday from my good friend, Tom. I can't wait to read it, especially if there are scenes like those mentioned here. A review will be forthcoming, for sure.

Quickpost

2007-03-29T10:03:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd better post before I get demoted to "dead links" list. I promise I'm still here, and I've been reading *your* blog, dear reader.

Last night I started reading What It Used to Be Like: A Portrait of My Marriage to Raymond Carver by Maryann Burk Carver.

I decided to read it like a true rabid fan of Ray's would; enjoying this chance to get to know the young Ray (and the "lost years"). I'll let you know how that goes.

You Don't Salute Inside

2007-03-08T14:43:00.000-08:00

I owe Tom a meme and a movie review. Those will happen soon. This evening or tomorrow, most likely.

In the meantime...if someone was making a scent that was going to be *your* scent, what would it smell like?

The Devil Went Down to Georgia

2007-02-12T15:25:00.001-08:00

Thanks, Ross, for pointing this one out to me!

http://www.slate.com/id/2159564/entry/2159565/fr/rss/

Carousel

2007-02-08T01:49:00.000-08:00

Just as I begin to feel like a normal person again, as the Sleeping Sickness finally slips away, in waltzes pain pain pain. I am actually considering going to the doctor to ask for pain medication, something I've yet to do in over 9 years of having serious pain now and then. It's bilateral, almost my whole left side (all the joints, and there are a lot, let me tell you) as well as my right hand. The cause may be the weather, which gives me hope that it will quickly go away. I just want to go back to normal life, working hard at school and actually feeling *good* now and then.

In between feeling rather angry, I've finished a few more books.

Fables: Animal Farm (collection of comics)
Like the Red Panda, Andrea Seigel
How Elizabeth Barrett Browning Saved My Life, Mameve Medwed
Lost and Found, Carolyn Parkhurst

Barometric Pressure

2007-02-06T18:24:00.000-08:00

I noticed it was cloudy and warmer today, but I didn't know what the weather was going to be like for the coming week. All day my bad elbow has been aching, but I didn't know why. It occurred to me that it might be the weather, and sure enough, when I checked out the weather, it's predicting rain. Damn that barometric pressure!

I feel like it might be ridiculous for someone who has chronic pain to live in an environment such as this. I've always lived in places with crazy weather, though, I'm not sure if I could get used to constant sun, or warmth. Do dry, yet cold, places have constantly shifting pressures?

More Books

2007-02-05T22:54:00.000-08:00

Still reading up a storm! Here's the latest:

The Whole World Over, Julia Glass
The Stolen Child, Keith Donohue
Years Best Graphic Novels, Comics & Manga (2004)

I also attempted reading two non-fiction books, but quit because one was overwhelming (about the occupation of iraq) and the other was too pretentious (the naked tourist).

Edited to add: I forgot two!:
Demo (graphic novel)
Sabine, anonymous author

T9 language?

2007-01-31T22:01:00.000-08:00

I really need to learn how to use that autocomplete/T9 language on my cell phone. I usually write full sentences in my text messages, but I write really short statements because I'm typing all the words out (which most others aren't, I hear). I try to avoid the odd little abbreviations so popular with some. I like words!

R uses it, and he hasn't taught it some words yet, such as the proper spelling for our friend Bryant's name. So now, instead of Bryant, we talk about our friend Crycot. I don't know what it thinks he's trying to say, but Crycot is a great word. Say it, right now, out loud. Doesn't it have a nice ring to it?

Give it up!

2007-01-30T14:09:00.000-08:00

My friend Tom and I decided to both watch a movie and then write blogs about it (a bonding exercise, you could say). Tom happened to suggest that we watch what he currently had from Netflix, so I added it to the top of my queue to make sure we posted close in time to each other.

National Lampoon's Adam and Eve made me wonder...what exactly is National Lampoon association all about? I mostly remember it from the heyday of Chevy Chase & crew, and 10 minutes into this movie it is obvious that this is a different type of film. Apparently, National Lampoon was spawned from The Harvard Lampoon, and used to be a magazine. I still don't quite understand what makes a movie qualified to add "N.L." to their licensing, but ...

A&E didn't have much to do with the biblical A&E, except for the issue of virginity. While you might think that a N.L. movie dealing with the issue of college-age students losing/keeping their virginity might be time for crazy hijinks and lots of nudity, you'd be mistaken. This was more of a low-low-budget drama, with a bit of mildly gross physical humor sprinkled through the middle. Perhaps the shining-est moment was when I realized that we were blessed with an appearance by the wonderful
Courtney Peldon, of Go Fug Yourself fame.

I second Tom's opinion that the character Adam could be a double for Beetlejuice if they ever make a sequel, they'll save tons on the makeup hours alone! He just doesn't have the charisma to carry off a role like this as a lead character. I'm not certain if a stronger actor could have helped much, though, the plot was not what you'd consider amazing.

Now I don't want to damn them with faint praise, but I did find it more watchable than Idiocracy. I've been known to enjoy a dumb movie now and then, but I only made it through the first 1/2 hour of this before I had to quit.

Has anyone else tried to watch either of these?

2007-01-25T21:47:00.000-08:00

I want this. I don't understand why it's so expensive. And I don't even like handbags.

Foodstuff

2007-01-25T19:02:00.000-08:00

My medical team and I recently had to up the dosage of a medication I've been taking for a long time, and I'm now struggling with some of the side effects. I have to take these medications to help maintain healthy function of my kidneys, essential for good health, but it's a tough ride. Currently, besides terrible dryness (eyes & mouth), and massive headaches, I have no appetite. It's partially related to the above mentioned dryness. As I'm still attempting to get over The Sleeping Sickness (as I've nicknamed my other ailments) maintaining good nutrition and getting enough calories to produce energy for the activities of daily living is important.

Currently I am enjoying a variety of beverages, those high in citric acid being most enjoyable to my poor palate (suffering from that dryness). I haven't yet identified actual foods that are very pleasing to me in this state, though. Pizza is usually something I can eat even when completely full, but I barely managed to get down a serving. The limited exposure I've had to Thai food has met with good results, but I don't really have the energy to prepare it for myself at this time. Most of my simple stand-bys (peanut butter toast, super garlicky pasta, etc) are not appealing at all!

Dear readers, any ideas? I am really hoping that I don't have to resort to Ensure and bananas again.

2007-01-03T23:42:00.000-08:00

If you are my friend, you should help me to to do something of these things in the very near future:

1. go to a bar. I haven't been in at least 3 months.
2. go see some music played. I can't even guess how long it's been.
3. see a movie. not as important as 1 or 2, but would still be fun.
4. come over and cook with me.

I have a book post and a sad post hanging out, I'll finish them and make visible soon.

Books II

2006-12-31T16:00:00.000-08:00

This is what I've read since January 8th:

Dark Voyage, Alan Furst
WWII, Dutch Naval Intelligence, subterfuge, boats...what's not to love!

Faerie Wars, Herbie Brennan
A bit silly (perhaps because I am not the intended audience). I was happy to read about a character in a "fantasy" type novel who wasn't perfect. Usually they're insanely virtuous, could never do wrong, and are pure of heart, spirit, etc. Our protagonist here is almost perfect, but does have trouble with himself now and then.

Rejuvenile, Christopher Noxon
There are some books that just don't need to be written. I love social science, but I don't think that paying any special heed to the fact that adults today enjoy doing things that they did when they were children means anything. The author didn't have much to say, other than providing evidence that adults now enjoy such things as....cupcakes (!), kickball (gasp!), and...and...cartoons!

Epileptic I, David B
A *graphic novel* about a boy, and growing up with an epileptic brother. Some of the witch doctor-esque cures his family seeks are really interesting to read about.

Grayson, Lynne Cox
My hopes were too hight for this little book. Lynne Cox is a swimmer, and has swum just about everywhere (even Antarctic waters). In "Grayson" she tells the story of when she encountered a baby whale, and waited with his for his mother to return.
This read like more of a motivational speech for young athletes than anything else.

America's Best Nonrequired Reading 2002
Good stuff. I had checked it out of the library back in 2002, but didn't get to finish before the due date (that was when I was a very busy girl).

Stuart (A Life Backwards), Alexander Masters
Homelessness and poverty in England, a very sad biography. Told with much wit!

Eragon, Christopher Paolini
Another fantasy protagonist who has flaws! Yay! I am more amazed by the author than I am by the book, he's really really young. Enjoyable, a little predictable now and then.

Throne of Jade, Naomi Novik
This is the second book in a series about fighting dragons, Napoleon, French Naval warfare, etc. It's a totally different setting for a dragon book, and I think they're really interesting. It is possible, though, that this could have been shortened down, I felt like it took a LOT of pages for not that much to happen. Time had to pass for us to understand the changes in the characters, but it's still a tad heavy.

The Natural Disorder of Things, Andrea Canobbio
Translated from Italian, and beautifully written! I found many many phrases I wanted to write down and share with you, but eventually there were too many. Read it! The protagonist is a landscape architect, he has some intriguing clients, and so on.

My Dirty Little Book of Stolen Time, Lis Jensen
Time traveling harlots! WOAH! Quite funny, and not written in the "fantasy" genre style at all.

Fragile Things, Neil Gaiman
I have to say, I was a little disappointed. I think that I prefer Gaiman's writing in longer forms, such as novella or full-length novel. I feel that with short stories, or little posies, that you don't get into the world as much as you'd want to. I should say, as much as *I* want to, because who am I to impose my values on you, dear reader?

The Ladies of Grace Adieu and Other Stores, Susanna Clark
An excellent follow-up to Clark's previous novel, the successful "Johnathan Strange & Mr Norell". J.S. makes an appearance in one of these tales, as does the Raven King, and several others we'll remember from JS&MN. This edition (1st) has lovely images, and bears a handsome cover. Highly recommended.

His Lovely Wife, Elizabeth Dewberry
The day before Princess Diana's death, the protagonist is accidentally mistaken for her. Afterwards, she is shocked by how much P.D.'s death effects her, and goes a little crazy. There is an interesting weaving of string theory (physics) and a narrative about a woman who realizes she isn't happy where she is. Interesting read, but not amazing (I did it in 2.5 hrs).

Night, Elie Wiesel
What can I say? A first-person account of being sent to concentration camps, Wiesel determined it was his duty to bear witness to the horrors he experienced. Included in this new translation (2006) is his acceptance speech for the Nobel Peace Prize (BEAUTIFUL!) and a new preface, both were highly appreciated.

Ponderings

2006-12-18T15:30:00.000-08:00

So if Worchester is actually "wooster", then why isn't Rochester "rooster"? And should Gloucester be "glue-ster"? These things keep me up at night, you know.

2006-11-30T15:09:00.000-08:00

Slate has a review about The Fountain. Even though this isn't really a recommendation, I still want to watch the movie now. I love nonsense.

Someone dropped some money in the hall in front of my desk, and I don't know what to do with it. I hope they come back.

We are running our PC using the Ubuntu operating system. It's pretty interesting, so far everything except for my HP printer will work with it, and it has a lot of different open source applications available. I really like it! I am so used to Apple computers now that when I try to use a Windows PC I find myself frustrated at their slowness/inefficiency/bad design. Ubuntu is a lot better.

Speaking of *we*, Ross is moving down to Eugene to live with me. Yay! I've missed having my partner at home with me, someone to talk to about the crap that goes on it the day, and someone to help with household stuff that I can't manage. It also feels really good to finally admit that I do need help, and that there are some things that I just can't do, or that I don't have enough energy to do it all. There's a lot more to that, but I can't get into it right now.

Procrastination City

2006-11-26T17:57:00.000-08:00

I've returned from NorCal just in time to hit a major rut in completing my studio project. I just can't focus on it. Homework is boring, yes?

Hope ya'll had a nice Thanksgiving. I enjoyed visiting with my niece & nephew, as well of the rest of the fam. I bribed the children with toys, Mom with tea, and Dad & Gram with dragon books. Woo!

I have had no social life to speak of lately, hence the lack of posting (things have been rather dull). This is partially due to lots of schoolwork, and also due to my exhaustion. I just don't feel up to planning anything, and it always seems that if I don't plan it just doesn't happen for me. I miss the days when invitations were flooding in!

Speaking of fashion, what's with all the empire waisted stuff lately? I look ridiculous in it since I'm sitting down...

Okay, this is headed nowhere. I promise to report back with wonderful news as soon as it happens. In the meantime, ponder this: link.

Not much more to add.

2006-11-08T23:24:00.000-08:00

http://nielsenhayden.com/makinglight/archives/008153.html#008153

False Modesty

2006-10-26T15:51:00.000-07:00

The prevaling themes of architecture conversations seem to be complaining, and false modesty. If everyone truly thought that their work was as bad as they claim it to be, they wouldn't show their faces. I am becoming increasingly weary of it. I actually *do* need some help from the instructors or a more advanced student, but because people are so used to everyone claiming they don't know what they're doing (when in fact they are just fine) that they don't realize how dire my need is. Ugh.

There's my complaining for the day!

9 years?!

2006-10-16T10:57:00.000-07:00

I can't believe my 9th anniversary is coming up (accident, people, I'm not married!).
Traditional gifts for this year are pottery or willow, and the contemporary is leather.

I wish it was the aluminum year, because I want these: http://www.spinergy.com/Wheelchair/lightExtreme.html

There are no plans for a celebration, yet, but I really want to do something. Last year a friend hosted a big dinner party for me, but this year the date (Oct 28th) falls on Halloween weekend, so I'm sure most ppl will be at normal parties being crazy. I think a movie/cooking night or something would be fun, something smaller. Anyone interested? Its possible to combine a low-key earlier in the day celebration with something crazy at night, I'm just not motivated to plan it all. But I don't want to let the day go by without reflection.

2006-10-12T02:16:00.000-07:00

10.10 was Mr. Robinson's birthday, so tonight we went out for pizza and drinks. Good times! I have been hanging around the "artistic temperment" types too much lately, so it was great to hang out with REAL people (Tony & Hannah). Much was discussed, and plans were made for our trip to Portland to see "Bonnie" Prince Billy. WOOOO!

I made Tony a birthday card featuring Lordi. You should all be so lucky.

2006-10-05T16:17:00.000-07:00

hehehe! That's all I can say. http://www.wheelingimages.com/models.htm

Shall I get the diesel truck or the fire truck?

2006-10-03T22:45:00.000-07:00

I fight an almost daily battle with consumerism. I've purchased a book that will help to explain the psychological & cultural implications of want, need, desire (not the naughty kind) & consumerism. I understand some of it already from previous readings, but hopefully this will help. I find it funny that I *bought* this book, and didn't check it out from the library. However, book purchases are usually not guilt inducing. I find when I am busy I don't have such a desire for pretty, pretty things...but spending all this time focusing on DESIGN BEAUTY ELEGANCE ETC makes me start obsessing about how frumpy half of my clothes are, and the fact that I only have one pair of earrings, and that if I could just find the perfect couch life would be complete...

Saucy Lady

2006-10-03T22:39:00.000-07:00

I am not down with sweet tomato sauce on pizza. It's just not right! Spicy is the best, and salty is okay if you must, but I just don't understand sweet.

I'm alive, I'm here again (after a busy time, and then a break from the cyber world). I recently learned that there are a few people who do read my blog. I'd like to encourage you to comment, because I thought I was talking to myself here. I know, I don't always have the most stimulating conversation sparking topics, but I'm sure you can think of something.

Pace.

Deep Thoughts

2006-07-14T22:29:00.000-07:00

I have been watching So You Think You Can Dance?, and I'm wondering, just who is Cat Deeley?

werd.

2006-07-05T01:22:00.000-07:00

The dark days aren't over. They aren't 100% consuming, but they sure aren't gone. I'm working on it, though.

2006-06-29T18:49:00.000-07:00

I've been fighting a bout of lethargy lately. Not an endearing patch of laziness, but true lethargy, where I bargain up meals in order to catch a bit more sleep. 11 hours of sleep at night aren't enough, I also need a 7 hour nap in the middle of the day. Don't most people have their first meal of the day at 10pm? I think that I am out of that mess, I hope so. I was starting to get worried about myself.

Because of my sleeping sickness (and a significant amount of pain, which I don't want to write about) I have an "incomplete" in one class. I've never had that before, and I feel a bit of guilt about it. My instructor has been really great, and she said I can do it over the summer or in the fall (it's just one project, probably 6-8 hours of work), and that I shouldn't worry about it. I'm saving it until my drafting skills are better, which they BEST be by summers end if I know what's good for me....(my own personal threat against myself).

Reading lots....Margaret Atwood (2), Douglas Coupland (3), Eggers (1)... Ah yes, Eggers. I finally cracked open "You Shall Know Us By Our Velocity". I had attempted to avoid the hype, but it was quite difficult to. I actually saw him read last summer, and he seemed like an okay guy. I enjoyed YSKUBOV, but not as a brilliant novel...it was almost like reading a series of long blog entries written by your friend, you know, the guy who can "write". The book begins on the front cover, my library copy was scuffed to almost complete illegibility. Sweet.

This evening I am starting "The Curse of the Narrows", which is about the Halifax Explosion of 1917. I love me some nautical disasters, even if they do happen in a harbour. I don't think that this one will involve cannibalism, however.

Anyhow, I've been enjoying everyone else's updates, and at some point I will strive to write something interesting myself.

xo!

It's all about me

2006-06-09T23:11:00.000-07:00

I'm starting to get birthday presents, yay!! I'm still such a little kid in this aspect, I love my birthday. I think it's redeeming that I also love other people's birthdays, and gift giving as well as receiving.

One of these presents was a subscription to Netflix. Yay!!!!!!!!!!! I've wanted this for quite some time since I don't have bad cable movies to watch. Please send me your movie recommendations, other than the two I rented this week, I haven't seen much at all.

Speaking of those rented movies, I highly recommend The Baxter. I thought it would just be a romantic comedy, and it is, but it's really clever and interesting. The second movie was The Dandelion, and I don't recommend it....I don't even think it's worth getting into, it just wasn't good.

Um...party on Sunday! Woo! If anyone in Eugene hasn't been invited yet, consider yourself invited, and let me know if you want to go.

Fruity

2006-05-18T23:19:00.000-07:00

www.produceoasis.com tells me that I should be able to acquire plums and/or apricots starting this month. I want them! Why can't I find them? I've been trying to eat local when possible, but this is for something special. If anyone in Eugeenie sees them (by Sunday), please let me know.

Listening to mopey-girl music (sung by mopey boys), but not feeling particularly mopey. I don't quite know how I'm feeling. I am fighting my inner hermit, my urge to cave-up and not leave the apartment. Trying my best.

My Kind of Food Writing

2006-05-16T01:28:00.000-07:00

When I'm supposed to be doing homework, cleaning the apt., paying bills, or some other dreaded chore, I often entertain myself by reading food blogs. I get ideas for my own culinary adventures, or just enjoy others vicariously. Sometimes I run across a blog that is just too pretentious for its own good. Luckily we have articles like this to bring us back to reality!

What We Talk About When We Talk About Love

2006-05-01T00:10:00.000-07:00

Ice cream. You know you love it. I haven't been in the mood for ice cream in months! Something is obviously wrong with me. I'm going to review some recent flavors to see if it inspires some ice cream lust.

One of my old favorites is Umqua's Chocolate Peanut Butter. They have the perfect balance of saltiness (from the pb) and sweet, and just the right chocolate flavor. I have never been a huge fan of chocolate ice cream, I always preferred to create my own by pouring vast amounts of chocolate syrup on vanilla ice cream (delivered by the Schwann's man) and stirring until they formed a delightful light-brown shade. I first discovered CPB when I was an undergraduate here in Eugene, and devoured many a container before I moved to Seattle. While in Seattle I tried CPB offerings from other brands, but they never got the flavor quite right. A market in Shoreline (just north of Seattle) was carrying Umpqua for the first few years I lived there, and I'd make the trip fairly frequently to pick up a gallon. When they stopped carrying it I was crushed...perhaps thats why I've returned to Eugene?

I discovered an old carton of Godiva's Chocolate Covered Cookies & Cream in the freezer, and I have no desire to finish it off. The reason it was left only half eaten is because...it's just not that great. The "cream" base is nothing like what I'm used to...normally the base flavor is very similar to the fillling from chocolate sandwich cookies. The cookie bits are good, but without a great base, it just doesn't excite me.

Tonight I purchased a pint of Julie's (heheh) Organic Mint Chip. I haven't eaten any yet, but I'll keep you posted on my thoughts when I do.

The bestest

2006-04-25T19:14:00.000-07:00

I enjoy days when I find a website that makes me think "wow, this is the coolest site I've ever seen!!". Pimp my snack, bitch.

Push Your Limit

2006-04-24T09:11:00.000-07:00

Free time is at a premium these days. I realized I've been reading the same book for almost a month, which is a first for me (not counting text books, of course). I did "take time for Julie" this weekend and participated in some fun activities, hopefully that will happen again this week!

Friday night some friends and I made an amazing paella. It started out with a specific vegetarian recipe, but we added sausage, and plenty of other tasty ingredients. The substitution of chipotle peppers for the recommended noras peppers was a good choice (esp. because I couldn't find noras peppers...I've never even heard of them). After stuffing ourselves, we played a few video games, which I haven't done in ages. I'm still as terrible as always, but it's fun to laugh at myself.

Saturday I attended a workshop on freehand perspective, which was a waste of my 3hrs. I thought the "freehand" technique would be about quick ways to eyeball something, but it was a much more measured and slooooow process. Afterwards I wasted 4 hours (which was awesome!) and then headed up to Portland with a friend for the Pinback show. Good times!

This weekend is the film festival I've been working on....it's held by the Disability Studies Initiative at the UO. I think it will be enjoyable, but I'm a bit nervous, since I'll be introducing the films opening night. Ross said that if I wear a bikini no one will notice if I fumble the words. Heh. I also got to flex my newly developed graphic design skills by creating the program for the festival. 500 copies are being printed, which also scares me.

Back to work. Hope you're all having fun. Word.

Sweet!

2006-04-19T12:35:00.000-07:00

I just read this little blurb on Slate.com

"A girl's failing heart healed itself while she used a donor heart. Ten years ago, when she was a toddler, her heart was too big and weak, so doctors gave her a donor heart but left the original one inside her, still connected. Recently, her body rejected the donor organ, and when they opened her up, they found that the original organ had fixed itself. Reactions: 1) It's a miracle. 2) It's a tribute to the doctors who left the original heart inside her, just in case. 3) It validates the theory that some failing hearts suffer from inflammation and can recover if simply allowed to rest."

How cool is that!?!

2 Trips to PDX

2006-04-18T13:14:00.000-07:00

I'm headed up to PDX twice this week, should be lots of fun!

Thursday is a field trip for school, and a vanful of girls and I will be going to various places to learn about materials.

Saturday afternoon I'll be returning for the Pinback show at Berbati's Pan. Anyone interested in tagging along (even just for the ride)? I do have a friend going, but there is room for 3 more. Or ppl who are in pdx could meet up with us....

Who's that girl?

2006-04-14T00:09:00.000-07:00

Equal Parts Horrified and Delighted

2006-04-13T00:22:00.000-07:00

Go Here

Things I've Realized Tonight

2006-04-13T00:08:00.000-07:00

1. I still know all the words to Jesus Jones' hit "Right Here, Right Now"
2. I rely too much on social referencing
3. I mourn the loss of my former self (again, too much)

ketchup

2006-04-05T18:25:00.000-07:00

I'm a bit behind, oh my!

I had the best finals week ever, including attending 5 parties in 6 days. I only had one real final, and since all of my classes are pass/no pass, it wasn't really a big deal. Skipping studio during winter term is a very good thing, as I was witness to much stress & a few breakdowns.

Before heading to Seattle for spring break I stopped in Portland to see Rhett Miller. I had no idea how dreamy he was! I really enjoyed the show, he rocked pretty damn hard. I think he will take the place of Ryan Adams as alt-country demi-god.

Seattle was enjoyable, I visited with friends, ate many good meals, and even had a bonfire. I also got to meet the Lindsey's goats, who are as adorable as I had heard. Bonfires are always a good time, and this one had an extra big of fun that manifested as a drunk Russian teenager. He chose to pull his pants down in front of me to show how "great" his body was & jumped into Puget Sound with the rest of my boys (see picture above). Good times!

The most exciting part of the last few weeks was skiing! I've been wanting to ski since I've been injured, but it just never happened (money, time, injuries, etc). I've gone twice so far, and I may be able to fit one more day in before spring really hits. I tend to rock at adapted sports since I'm considered "high functioning", and this was no exception. It's nice to feel really good at something, my daily attemps at drawing & design aren't usually so beneficial to my self esteem.

My New Favorite Blog

2006-03-09T22:46:00.000-08:00

The coolest blog ever!!

Yet Another Completely Useless Post

2006-03-09T22:37:00.000-08:00

I've been known to not enjoy extended jam sequences (which differ greatly from guitar solos) in my music. This has been proved false only once in a great while (and usually only while intoxicated, which doesn't happen that often). However, tonight while I was sending out 9 million emails for a volunteer project, I enjoyed the booty-shakin' effects of "Styrofoam Boots/It's Nice on Ice, Alright" by Modest Mouse.

At a friend's show a few years ago, she was followed by what I would consider a jam band. I realized that unless one harbors a crush/lust/friendship with a member of the band, they just aren't that great to listen to.

This being said, back in the time when I could have been considered someone who played an instrument, I never noodled around or anything like that. It was always songs, whole songs. I hate when friends pull out their guitar and only play a few chords before switching to another song. Just play it.

What you sayin'?

2006-02-28T20:38:00.000-08:00

Inspired by Lolly, I went to see what my latest pimp name might be. I was happy with the results:

G. Digital Julie Flex
Silver Tongue Grant Flava
Deacon Dr. J Dazzle
Macktastic Grant Flex (there's a flex theme, for obvious reasons)
Devious Honey J. Glide

What are yours?

2006-02-27T21:24:00.000-08:00

For Lolly:
Sorry for the goofy pic, I had a hard time not making weird faces. I like it when worn wavy as well, very bouncy and soft.

2006-02-23T20:41:00.000-08:00

I've got a bit of spring fever. I've been cleaning like an empty-nester with OCD, and working on overall improvement. Today it was the hair (super cute), and last weekend I purged a lot of the clothes I've had for years that just don't fit.

Tomorrow I have about 10 appointments, but at the end of the day I might have a new (to me) handcycle, a summer job, and I might just fall into bed still buzzed on my 4 bottles of cider.

I'm hoping that this is effectively channeling my mental drama & restlessness. Hope hope hope.

One Line

2006-02-21T02:23:00.000-08:00

Tonight; I want to wear the new off of you.

What happened to Team Julie Grant?

2006-02-20T21:37:00.000-08:00

Fun was had!

Better Faster Funner More (something like that) dominated Trivia Night at the Rogue...at least until our beer really kicked in around the 3rd round. But Tony walked away with a t-shirt, and we all got a few $$ off our bills. I hope to go again soon (week after this weekend?)! I even got to meet some nice new ppl (and I lost their phone number/email because I'm a jerk).

I also got a chance to talk to Tony about some drama that currently is only in my head, and I'm hoping to keep it there. Our little chat has helped keep it under control, and I am almost certain that it can be squelched. Sorry for the vagueness.

Last week my PT added a variety of ab exercises to my growing list of at-home activities. I even get to use my medicine ball! I'm going to be ripped in no time.

2006-02-16T23:54:00.000-08:00

I'm interested in poems/writing/prose about what I guess could be called sweet heartache. Not the broken hearted, I'm so sad...but more the bittersweet-remembering type of heartache. Not a love heartache at all, at least romantic love. Things past.

2006-02-15T21:58:00.000-08:00

Today was a good day. After spending a few days without leaving the apartment (barely leaving my bed), I returned to life full force!

Madcrazy networking happenend, furthered some schemes for summer plans, got to see some cool projects, and I received the coolest lamp ever purchased on ebay. I went to all my classes, only had mild pain, and even got my errands done.

I'm dreaming of learning how to sit-ski, trying wheelchair tennis again, and generally doing things that involve some form of movement. If that doesn't work, just spending time with others might do. I am finally feeling the urge to crawl out of my hermit shell.

Winter Term without studio is a good thing!

2006-02-10T00:01:00.000-08:00

Since I live across the street from the dorms, I like to observe the behavior that goes on in these parts.

Today it was like the cages got left open at the zoo! There were dormies everywhere...I saw some boys walking a "tightrope", lots and lots of disc throwing, and every other type of lawn sport you could imagine. If I hadn't been ready for a nap myself I would have busted out the croquet set. I'm ready for some death match croquet, oh yes.

Hopefully fun will happen tomorrow, and through the weekend. If you want to take part, call me.

2006-02-08T20:05:00.000-08:00

Tonight I was at a lecture downtown about urban planning, Vancouver, B.C., Eugene, etc. For some reason about 20 mintues into it I was overcome with sadness about my bike. I miss it so much. I think it's this time of year, the sun has been out, we're all stir-crazy from all the rain...
I was so sad.

2006-02-06T18:11:00.000-08:00

I realize it's been much too long since I've written, and I've probably lost my 3 readers (holla!)...the whole point of this blog was to keep in touch with multiple ppl at one time since I rarely have time for email these days. We'll see what happens.

Last term ended well, although I was in survival mode (hunker down, eat lots of fat, sleep 3 hours a night) for the last month or so. I lounged resplendently during the break, visited Montana and California, and returned to conquer architecture school.

What I didn't count on was encountering lots of pain & injury, and having such a hard time getting around. Every night I went to bed thinking about how hard it was to keep going. I try to keep the complaints about being disabled unvoiced, so I needed more time before my return to bloggin'.

My studio class was dropped last week, and it was like the sun came out, the birds were singing, and there were high-fives all around. I actually did my first social activity of the term last weekend, and survived!

Once I am a bit closer to full strength I'll be doing some independent projects, without studio I have an extra 12-24 hrs of free time during the week. I am going to attempt to learn to draw perspectives, how to use Vector Works, and to continue purging my apartment of clutter.

What have you guys been up to? Anyone out there still?

2005-11-17T23:48:00.000-08:00

Today I had a pizza lunch with a friend who was born and raised in NY, and sure enough, she folded her pizza in half to eat (lengthwise)! I've only seen people do that out of neccessity, or mentioned in writings about NY. For some reason this was interesting to me.

Something else happened involving a greasy food, quite possibly pizza. In arch. school we work on one major project in our studio class, throughout the term. I can't reach the bulletin board over my desk, but I have two desks, so instead of pinning them up I just put all my drawings in tidy piles on my spare desk. Today I arrived at studio to find that all my drawings from this term had been soaked with grease. Big splotches too, and right in the middle, so I can't just cut them out. Luckily our final review is a few weeks away, and I'm still revising, but this means I won't have any "work in progress" drawings to pin up, nor will I be able to show my revision process at the final review. If I explained to each person who viewed it what happened it would be okay, but that would be annoying. If I didn't, they'd just assume that I was a slob (these are huge stains, people). Sigh.

The good news is that I'm feeling less stressed about school. I am planning on cooking as much as I can this weekend, as lately my love for cooking has manifested itself as reading recipes late at night when I should be sleeping. I'm not sure yet what I'll be making, other than a dessert for a school function on Saturday. Any ideas or suggestions? I might be purchasing a dutch oven this weekend, as I have no thick bottomed pots, and it's becoming a problem.

2005-11-12T14:14:00.000-08:00

Despite the compliments and the well wishing from my spammers, I'm tired of it, so I'm turning the word verification on. Sorry guys!

2005-11-09T00:23:00.000-08:00

Tonight has been a culinary disaster. I decided I would make falafel for dinner. Usually I cook the falafel balls a little too long.... My friend had given me some "authentic" falafel mix, so I tried it. The mixes I've used have required you to add water and wait 10 minutes, this was 1 hr. Even though I was starting at 9pm, I waited. And at 10:20 it still hadn't really absorbed the water, but I thought I'd try anyway. Pretty soon I had crumbles, and I drained the oil off, but still no luck. So I threw that batch out, and started another w/a different brand of mix (still not the usual brand). This time, they just absorbed the OIL when I was trying fry them, and turned mushy medium brown, not crispy golden brown as I wished for. I threw out everything and warmed up some vegetarian buffalo wings (and made a huge salad). I'm sad. I think I may have to leave the falafel making to Alexander.

School is....a bit overwhelming. I'm feel a little discouraged, mostly because I am feeling the strain so physically, and other than in the computer class I feel like I'm making no progress. I know I am, but it's hard when you're tired, have no time to eat or sleep, behind about 650 pages in reading, and there's no break in sight. So many different assignments, each requiring a new and challening skill. But I realize I still really like the subjects, and once I can get my head back above water I'll be fine. Apparently this is the term of "general malaise" for most Option III architecture students. The funny thing is, when I came to Summer Academy & people warned me that arch. school was horrible, I thought they were exaggerating. People always complain about school, the workload, and being tired...and most of the time it really isn't that bad. This is. I worry about my health. We already have one student who just spent more than a week in the hospital, and I don't want to join her. I have been taking it a bit easier on myself lately, coming home when I still have work to do, because I know I need rest. I'll pull through, I promise!

I spent last weekend in Seattle. It was nice to be "home" again! I spent most of the weekend rushing around, late to everything. Getting to Daniel Smith before they closed, breakfast w/Jim @ Vera's (about 5 blocks from my apt), then almost late to Sonja's wedding! It was lovely, she had each detail down. It was an intimate ceremony, and I am very glad that I sacrificed homework time to be there. She was an amazing friend during the hardest time in my life, and I am grateful for her friendship.

We have final projects due right after Thanksgiving, so I may be spending that holiday here in Eugene (I think R will come down). I'm going to cook!! I'm actually pretty excited, although I was looking forward to seeing my family. If anyone else is going to be w/out family, please let me know, I'd love to share it with you.

Off to watch another episode of Wonderfalls, and pass out....Goodnight!

Discombobulated

2005-11-03T15:43:00.000-08:00

I just realized that Neil Gaiman's last name is pronounced "GAY-man" not "GUY-man" as I had been saying/thinking it all this time. It's a whole new word! He's a whole new man! What will I do? Tell the masses, that's what I'll do.

2005-11-02T00:55:00.000-08:00

Just got home from enjoying The Decemberists. What a show! There was much rocking, and bouncing, and I met some nice people. Also got to exchange some hugs & madcrazy waving with Tony & Laura. I am proud of myself for taking the night off and feeling not guilt...since I finished the homework that is due tomorrow, I felt I was owed. Working on the one day at a time approach here, folks.

The article ran in the Daily Emerald about my bike. Hopefully something turns up. Working on getting the Register Guard to run one as well (no link for them until they comply!).

Halloweenie was lots of fun. I was Space Vixen, and I was accompanied by my Space Monster. We attended an okay party, and a fun party. We only stayed at the okay party for about 1/2 hour, so I must give it credit that it could have gotten better. The time there wasn't super fun, only a few ppl made any effort to talk to us. The fun party was filled with hugs & chatty folks, much better!

Friday was my 8 year anniversary of being injured. We celebrated with a "gourmet party"
(as one of the partygoers referred to it) hosted by Dima. She made salmon in puff pastry, shaped to look like little fish. They were all different, and all adorable. Many bottles of wine, lots of cheese, and many many other goodies were consumed. 8 years marks the pottery/bronze anniversary, but I received no pottery nor any bronze statuettes. I was so hoping. A few friends were invited that um...*ignored* my invitation. I followed up several times, and even issued personal requests (rather than a group email). I straight out mentioned how important it was to me. But no response. I think that's a pretty clear statement, eh? I didn't let them get me down, too many others who are super awesome around to let it. It does hurt, though.

Anyhow, I'm tired, and a little out of it. Must get more than 5 hours of sleep tonight.

Word.

2005-10-21T23:10:00.000-07:00

I had a really bad night last night...I wandered out to say hello to my handcycle, and it was gone! Stolen, right out of the bike cage. See, handcycles aren't like normal bikes, you can't just go buy a $50 fun, "disposable" bike. This bad boy cost me $2000, I used the insurance money from my car accident to pay for it. After filing the police report, I called Ross, and finally broke down and lost it. I believe the phrase "I'm in a wheelchair, my life is hard enough!!" was used. Obviously thieves don't care. I think tomorrow I'm going to be going around town putting up fliers. I doubt I'll ever get it back, but hopefully I can prevent whomever has it from using or selling it.

I feel so violated. I'm actually more angry about this than I was when the scary zombie came after Ross & I.

I'll try for a fun post soon, I promise.

2005-10-10T21:03:00.000-07:00

Today I am celebrating several birthdays: Tony, Jim & MikeD (whoI just met). Yay for October 10th men! Tomorrow is my niece Kaitlyn's birthday, she'll be 8. I bought her a book that has all the little Seredipity (the sea creature) stories in it. I thought it was appropriate because her mom & I read them when we were around her age.

Tonight I am eating my dinner with a spork!

Tomorrow I will have lots of reading to do, as well as drawings, measurements, photos to take...

2005-07-17T00:54:00.000-07:00

A recent morning started off with alt-country and a squeeky wheel, and productivity quickly went downhill.

Last summer I was able to create & explore architecture and all it's glory like mad, but this summer it has not been flowing. I know that we all hit these dry spells, it just sucks that mine happens to be right at the beginning. But I'm working on it. As soon as I finish writing this, I'm going to go read some of the articles that I've been photocopying for the last 2 days.

In addition to my studio class, I also have a history/theory class...yup, architectural theory. I side with Frank Gehry on this; "it's like talking about an emotional experience...you either get it or you don't." I find when I am lectured to about theory in great length that very simple ideas begin to seem more complicated, and they get confusing. I realize that doesn't make very much sense, but it's something I've noticed in different areas...physics was like this at times. This class needs a discussion section. I guess that's what all that free time is for... (hah!).

All-in-all, though, I'm very happy and things are going very well. I have a great studio instructor who is very motivating and interesting, and his enthusiasm is just what I need. I am thrilled to be in a program full of interesting, stimulating, and all-around enjoyable people.

We've been spoiled a bit...Tuesday-Weds this week we went to Portland, Hood River, and Timberline Lodge. We actually stayed at the Lodge! I had a lovely private room with a fluffy bed that enveloped me in the warmest, comfy-est hug a tired girl could wish for. Portland was fun; we walked around downtown, and even ended up taking some of the public transportation, which was very efficient (and accessible). Every time I go I learn more about the city and how much I like it. I think it's definitely an option post school.

I'm sure there is plenty more to update, but really I'm just working long hours in the studio, and then spending a little time poking around the apartment--cooking, cleaning and the like. I even managed to put my slow cooker to use and made a garbanzo bean chili & carrot w/parsnip soup.
Now I have about 10 meals in the freezer, yay!

Any music recommendations? I need something to listen to while I'm working. My rotation lately has included Ryan Adams latest (cold roses), The Long Winters, and Citizen Cope.

2005-06-25T10:23:00.000-07:00

Today I am listening to an unlikely mix of Skinny Puppy, Neutral Milk Hotel, and Romanian techno songs. It's quite pleasant, and is keeping me motivated (working on design projects). I just added Visqueen to the mix, good stuff. "Crush on the Radio" makes me sing really loud and out-of-tune in a completely endearing way...really.

My new apt. is almost set up. I have way too much cooking stuff & t-shirts, two things I dearly love. I think I'll be shuffling stuff around for another week or two, and someone with more hand strength than I have needs to help me build a cabinet I bought, but otherwise most everything is put away.

I love being in Eugene in the summer. I want to go rafting and throw big the type of party where people wake up the next morning with salt in their belly button and their neck reeking of saliva and tequila...we'll see if I can accomplish that goal before summer's end. I think I need to borrow a house to do it, my neighbor is not so into partying. Any offers?

Must get back to work. Party on.

2005-06-17T00:25:00.000-07:00

I take my final final tomorrow, physics. I've got electromagneticdensityequalsrogv coming out of my ears. I am in no way prepared, mostly due to the fact that I've spent the last 3 days packing and snipping off loose ends (no tying for me!).

I leave for Eugene on Saturday at about 8am, hopefully to arrive by 3. R & his parents will be escorting me, mostly to serve as manual labor since I am a lady of leisure.

I think my stitches are coming loose from my graft early, which makes me nervous. Stay! Behave!

Grad school starts Monday. This is some crazy shit. But not batshit crazy (see comments).

Word. See ya'll in a few days.

2005-06-15T09:43:00.000-07:00

Nick Hornby's voice reminded me of Mos Def's in the Hitchhiker's Guide movie. Odd, eh? I listed to a lengthy interview with him yesterday on NPR.

His new book sounds really interesting, it's about 4 people who all go to the same place to commit suicide, and end up talking each other out of it, and then about their relationships afterwards. He described the different situations the people were in that they felt like suicide was their only option, about his own depression, and such.

There is an American in the book (it takes place in London), and he's a chipper, fix-it-all kind of guy. The interviewer asked him if he generally found Americans to be this way, and he said that he didn't, but he thought that the media portrayed them that way, and that made a lot of people feel alienated because they weren't like that. I guess he went along with that stereotype because it was useful for this book, in order books he certainly hasn't, so I guess we can forgive him.

Anyhow, he's an interesting man, I'm disappointed I had to miss the book reading last night.

2005-06-13T22:18:00.000-07:00

I was thinking to myself that it's been a long time since I've been emotionally moved by music.

On further thought, I do recall a few drives to and from school singing along with The Long Winters, but that may just be due to the fact that I can understand the words (not that they don't rock, they do, but you know what I mean).

Do you think you need to be in a funk to be really moved by sad, emotional, depressed, discouraging, crestfallen, woebegone music?

I enjoy Cake because their songs sound happy, but when you listen to the words sometimes the situation is really terrible.

I enjoy my recently developed talent to *not* listen to the words. I used to be words, words, words...

Physics is calling me; "Julie! Calculate this magnetic force, or I'll chain your ass to a desk where you can file paperwork and repair staplers until you develop bladder cancer at 43 1/2...." I'd like to smash it before it completes it's threat.

2005-06-12T15:06:00.000-07:00

Last night I had a very fun birthday party!

There was enough alcohol consumed that everyone had fun and was loosened up, but not enough so that there was any vomitting, confessions of love, or crying.

I received some very sweet presents, ate 3 kinds of desserts (flour-free cake, cupcakes, and mini bananas foster), and finally tried some "brutal juice" alcoholic beverage (tastes like strawberry punch). There was a small amount of dancing along with a strobe light, and the discovery that you can create the illusion of a "stopped" fan by shining a strobe light on it at the right speed. Very cool. No one was drunk enough to stick their finger in, thank goodness.

I asked people to bring "mini" foods, and they were very creative: aforementioned mini bananas foster, mini cream puffs, mini chips, mini crackers & cookies, mini veggie corndogs, mini "pigs in a blanket", mini pizzas, mini candies.... I provided mini cakes (cupcakes) & mini vegetables, along with a rockin' bowl of red pepper hummus that wasn't so mini. It's always good to have a theme. ♥

The best part was getting to hang out with my friends before I move...hopefully everyone upholds their promise to visit this summer. Eugene in the summer makes you fall in love and want to stay!

I don't have much to say right now, nothing profound, but it was a good time and I feel very loved.

2005-06-07T12:52:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had gum surgery, my gums are angrily recessing away, so we cut them and packed them full of happy flesh from the roof of my mouth. The happiness hasn't quite taken over yet, and I now understand why my peridontist said I'll loose 10 pounds, it's nearly impossible to avoid the incision in the top. I had a big bowl of mashed potatoes, 1 bottle of vanilla Ensure, and some pudding last night. I'm starving now, but I don't really want to eat because I am worried about the stitches...when I get done writing this I'll suck it up and go get something to eat.

My face is really swollen, it's kind of freakish. I swear it's worse than when I had my wisdom teeth out, but that might just be selective memory. Less painful, so far, but I've been keeping up with my dose of pain meds.

Whee!

2005-06-04T13:05:00.000-07:00

When I was in first grade I wrote a lovely poem, and it was published in the Young Writer's anthology at my school (K-8). I'd like to share it with you.

I had a cat
He was very fat
He caught a bat
and laid it on the doormat
And that, was that

2005-05-17T23:43:00.000-07:00

Weekend was full of hijinks. Crazy photo shoot, fun BBQ w/message balloons, Mariners vs. Red Sox game (cotton candy! yay!), attacked by a zombie (seriously, ask me about it!) and had to call the police, visiting Oasis (the coolest Asian fruity drink shop ever), took a perspective drawing class...in there I think I fit some homework and some housewench obligations. Good times!

2005-05-16T21:30:00.000-07:00

Oh my!

http://www.mcsaatchi.com/sydney/CREATIVE/movie5.html

2005-05-15T22:02:00.000-07:00

Yay for Julie!

As of 5/16/2005 12:01:30 AM CDT
You are 25 years old.
You are 311 months old.
You are 1,353 weeks old.
You are 9,471 days old.
You are 227,304 hours old.
You are 13,638,241 minutes old.
You are 818,294,490 seconds old.

2005-05-07T17:57:00.000-07:00

C'est chouette!

http://www.steelcitysfinest.com/HondaAccordAd.htm

2005-05-04T15:21:00.000-07:00

The lighting in one of my classrooms is giving me headaches. They start out mild, and I think that maybe if I drink enough water I'll make it through the day. But eventually they progress to the point where an evil little beast runs around in my brain, jabbing sharp pointy objects into tender spots behind my eyes, and at the base of my neck. After reaching this point in the pain, I have to go home and put an ice pack on, hoping to freeze my brainstem. Drinking coffee helps, but firing up the esspresso machine is not an option when I feel like this. I begin to lose motor function, smashing into walls on my way to the bed. I don't seem to get bounce-back headaches from the caffeine, which is usually a big risk, so I'm very fortunate in that matter. Only a few more weeks to go.

An incision made on my abdomen about 7.5 yrs ago has decided to adhere to my abdominal muscles. When I flex there is a distinct puckering, and if I flex and move to do something at the same time (about 200 times each day) it pulls really hard. Now that my physical therapist has gotten my pelvis to remain in the proper position (back, not forward) it's becoming more noticeable. This afternoon I spent about twenty minutes with my shirt pulled up, having the scar massaged, pulled, pinched, and kneaded.

I think my body hates me.

2005-05-03T22:12:00.000-07:00

I am in love with the song Stupid by The Long Winters. Crazy, turnituprolldownthewindowanddrivetoofast crazy. *sigh*
If you don't have the album, you can download it at their website.

2005-05-03T17:12:00.000-07:00

Returning to Eugene (in about 44 days)...I'm excited! I like Eugene for many reasons, but most of all because (as I said to my art teacher) I think I'm a better person when I'm there. Up here it's easy to get caught up in the materialistic hipster bullshit, but not quite so easy there.

I'm a little scared, I have not lived alone in a long time, but hopefully the part of me that is excited about having my own place will take over and keep me content. We'll see. Oddly enough, I'm not scared about school itself, which should be the hardest part; it's grad school! I guess I'm trusting myself to be okay in that respect.

I want to see Built to Spill in June, but the showtimes are complicated. On June 9th they're playing in Eugene, so I could go down there...but R wouldn't be able to come, and that'd be a lot of gas to burn up. They're playing in Portland on the 10th, which might be nice, I could visit with all my Portland friends & even be in town for my birthday (the next day). But R did mention something about having a birthday party for me here. Or I could wait and see them in Seattle, but they're playing the 16th (I have a final the next day) and the 17th (but I'll be moving the next day). I think Portland sounds the most promising, and I guess I'll just deal with the birthday issues.

I have some sort of BtS curse, the first two times (about 1 yr apart) I tried to see them (even bought advanced tickets) I ended up getting really sick, and giving the tickets away. The last time I saw them was fun, because there were a bunch of young ppl there who were expecting them to look a lot different, and when 4 normal looking guys from Idaho came out, the girlies were shocked. I even heard one comment to her friend about the body odor of Doug Marsch. I was happy, because they backed off and gave me more room. Rock concerts are supposed to stink!

Today is one of those days when my body doesn't like me. I'm going to go self-medicate w/whatever is on our Tivo. Yay Tivo!

2005-05-01T18:38:00.000-07:00

No photos have been taken, which is bad.

Very Bad is that physics is making me feel stupid. See, physics (at this basic level) really aren't that hard. What *is* hard is the whacky algebra that our book insists on using. They have tons of derived formulas that are really confusing. Our instructor doesn't want us to use those formulas, we just use the basic, but we still use the book to get homework problems from, which means trying to use the sample problems (that are worked out) is a nightmare. In class, the problems she creates for us are understandable, and solvable, and I can follow along (or answer her) just fine. For the HW, I usually have at the very least *some* idea on what to do, but today I have one problem that is just going to sit there and make me want to yell.

R says I get belligerent when I ask him for help. I am not upset with him, but with the problems and with the poor instructional materials, and I think he misunderstands where my anger is directed. This seems to be a common misunderstanding between the two of us; when I worked in crappy jobs & would complain to him, he always thought I was mad at him. When I was excited about something, he would misunderstand that excitement and think I was upset. I usually think I express myself fairly well, but obviously something needs to change there. I'll think about it more, but I have no idea what to do. I can't just be quiet all the time!

2005-04-28T16:25:00.000-07:00

I need to do a photo-shoot involving 5 people before Tuesday. So anyone just sitting around in Seattle, let me know, and I'll put you to work (work meaning stand in one place, then shift to the side, then shift to the other side). Word!

2005-04-26T23:26:00.000-07:00

I think that sometimes people think I am being gossip-y, when in fact I am just trying to work on my relationship with them. Sometimes I don't understand people's actions, but I'd be uncomfortable asking them about it, so I ask someone else (usually someone else who knows them to get a better judgment). I just better want to understand motivations and intentions. And even if I am not particularly working on them, I am often curious about people and their behavior. I think I need to be more clear about this in the future.

2005-04-24T21:34:00.000-07:00

Oh my, this is fun when you're distracted!!

The Amazing Meganame Generator

My rock star name was Caramel Cheetah. =)

2005-04-24T20:47:00.000-07:00

Last night Jim & Susan got married! It was wonderful, one of the best weddings I've ever been to. It was very nice to hear only positive things said about the union, I don't think anyone could ever doubt that they are perfect for each other. The vows (and the ceremony itself) was short and sweet, very affecting. Afterwards there was an Indian buffet, the speeches, a bride & groom duet, and then tons of dancing.

I had to scold a woman who was being very very bossy with all of us. She even interrupted me during my speech because I didn't start by saying my name. And she called my outfit "unique". I knew that it wasn't a compliment. Grr. She frequently gets on the bad side of people, her personality clashes with nearly anyone else's. I've also learned that she just can't accept that people might have a world view that is different from hers. I just try to stay neutral, or not talk to her very much. I don't like to argue.

As part of the wedding committee, I blew up several hundred balloons, at one point the pile was up to my waist. I'm not sure about the diameter, but it took up the whole corner of a traditional sized gym. I should have learned the technique of tying them off using forceps (which the bride's father discovered) it would have saved me some skin.

Not many of my pictures turned out well. People moving, bad lighting, etc. Luckily there were several professionals, many amateurs, and lots of people with "prosumer" cameras who know how to use them. I'm sure some will be shared in the near future. I did get quite a few interesting ones during the set-up time, there is a great one of a bunch of people working, with just one blurred person racing through the middle. :)

I gave a small speech, I hope it was okay. Since I hardly write anything creatively (or to deal with emotions) anymore, I don't feel like I express myself very well. I should work on it.