One thing that I find very fascinating about my iPhone... well, one of many things... is that it is constantly changing. Regularly my computer is downloading updates that make small yet fun changes to my phone, all of which are improvements. I cannot claim this for any previous phone I have had and I find it quite delightful and exciting, thinking that although the hardware of my phone may get out of date, the software will not.
Likewise, I recently downloaded the new update for iTunes which contains the new "Genius" function which I immediately ignored because it claims to put playlists together on your behalf and frankly, I can do that myself. But on a whim the other night, I let the Genius do its thing. I chose a song and let it create a playlist around it. I didn't even listen till the playlist until last night when I was at the gym (yea, I actually made it back to the gym. *shock* *awe* *gasp*) and I gotta tell you, it was pretty awesome! I'm sure it is simple to program, I mean it just grabs all the tags to your songs and then compares them, but I was definitely into the idea that if I hear a song that puts me in the mood to let's say run (;)), and then I want to hear other running songs it will do it for me.
So, stamp of approval given by theLAZE.
Give it a try. I think you'll like it too.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Monday, September 15, 2008
mid day update!
"McCain Spokesperson Carly Fiorina lashed out at Tina Fey today on MNSBC, calling her portrayal of Sarah Palin both "disrespectful" and "sexist." Tina Fey, a strong supporter of Sen. Hillary Clinton's campaign (she endorsed Clinton on SNL last season), is seen by no reasonable person as sexist."
Amazing.
Um, so the book is here? It came by UPS this morning.
How did it make its way from Singapore so quickly?
I am confused but not complaining.
:D
Amazing.
Um, so the book is here? It came by UPS this morning.
How did it make its way from Singapore so quickly?
I am confused but not complaining.
:D
Rain, rain, rain, rain, raiiiiiinnnn.
It rained all weekend.
Literally all weekend.
Yea, seriously, it started on Friday and then it just kept raining until Sunday afternoon. I've never seen anything like it... not such a consistent downpour for so long. It's a little bit of Hurricane Ike coming our way, but man! The suburbs are flooded and some neighborhoods have seen better days, but overall, all is ok. Thank god we're not in Texas. :/
Because of the weather I had a weekend of just mild events. Friday evening I enjoyed some drinks with coworkers after work and then made my way with Christina down to the south side to see this dance performance by this group called The Seldoms. It was pretty amazing. It took place in a warehouse and involved video projections and dance. I was glad to have made the trip.
Saturday was an absolutely lazy day, involving brunch with Ryan, Burn After Reading, which I loved even though everyone else seems to be lukewarm about it, and then a terribly failed attempt a cooking a vegetarian meal. I mean, it was a total failure. flop. blech. blah. plop.
Sunday, I did some singing and then made my way home (it was still pouring rain) to get myself together and finally run errands. Thanks to Linsey's generosity and car, I was able to donate some clothes to the salvation army (which have been sitting in my entry way for months now) and sell some others to the Crossroads. ($45!) The evening concluded with a lovely dinner at Mana and a stroll through the renegade craft fair. Oh, it finally stopped raining yesterday evening.
All in all, I say it was pretty good for a dull weather weekend.
Oh, and in text book news, I found out why my text book is so cheap.
IT IS IN SINGAPORE.
Ha! Now the question is, will it ever actually make it here?
sigh.
Literally all weekend.
Yea, seriously, it started on Friday and then it just kept raining until Sunday afternoon. I've never seen anything like it... not such a consistent downpour for so long. It's a little bit of Hurricane Ike coming our way, but man! The suburbs are flooded and some neighborhoods have seen better days, but overall, all is ok. Thank god we're not in Texas. :/
Because of the weather I had a weekend of just mild events. Friday evening I enjoyed some drinks with coworkers after work and then made my way with Christina down to the south side to see this dance performance by this group called The Seldoms. It was pretty amazing. It took place in a warehouse and involved video projections and dance. I was glad to have made the trip.
Saturday was an absolutely lazy day, involving brunch with Ryan, Burn After Reading, which I loved even though everyone else seems to be lukewarm about it, and then a terribly failed attempt a cooking a vegetarian meal. I mean, it was a total failure. flop. blech. blah. plop.
Sunday, I did some singing and then made my way home (it was still pouring rain) to get myself together and finally run errands. Thanks to Linsey's generosity and car, I was able to donate some clothes to the salvation army (which have been sitting in my entry way for months now) and sell some others to the Crossroads. ($45!) The evening concluded with a lovely dinner at Mana and a stroll through the renegade craft fair. Oh, it finally stopped raining yesterday evening.
All in all, I say it was pretty good for a dull weather weekend.
Oh, and in text book news, I found out why my text book is so cheap.
IT IS IN SINGAPORE.
Ha! Now the question is, will it ever actually make it here?
sigh.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Riddle me this
I hurried downtown after work with my coworker Rita, so that we could purchase our books before we had class. We scurried down the different aisles trying to find our texts. I found mine quite quickly only to just as quickly undergo the shock of seeing the price tag.
$172
Yes, $172 for 400 pages about Strategic Marketing for Nonprofits.
Gimme a break!
I met back up with Rita and she had four books in her hands costing just $120 total.
Now, frankly I feel it is first and foremost wrong that publishing companies hold this kind of power, court professors and or schools, and wield it so irresponsibly. But then, I think it is also irresponsible of a professor to ask that students pay such an outlandish price for a book especially after they are already paying such high tuition (myself not included.) I wanted to complain the entire class, but I had already resolved I would return it ASAP and search the web for a cheaper version.
So, today I have done so and I see the book is listed online anywhere from $40 - $220. What is going on!? Of course I try my best to buy the $40 version only to realize I will be charged an equal $40 for shipping. I'm sorry, but again, what is going on!? Granted, this is still cheaper than purchasing the book for $170 like I did yesterday, but gimme a break.
This seems slightly comparable to drug companies that gouge for their medications and court doctors.
OOooooh well. This is being a student in America I suppose.
I keep thinking it is Friday. Maybe wishful thinking?
$172
Yes, $172 for 400 pages about Strategic Marketing for Nonprofits.
Gimme a break!
I met back up with Rita and she had four books in her hands costing just $120 total.
Now, frankly I feel it is first and foremost wrong that publishing companies hold this kind of power, court professors and or schools, and wield it so irresponsibly. But then, I think it is also irresponsible of a professor to ask that students pay such an outlandish price for a book especially after they are already paying such high tuition (myself not included.) I wanted to complain the entire class, but I had already resolved I would return it ASAP and search the web for a cheaper version.
So, today I have done so and I see the book is listed online anywhere from $40 - $220. What is going on!? Of course I try my best to buy the $40 version only to realize I will be charged an equal $40 for shipping. I'm sorry, but again, what is going on!? Granted, this is still cheaper than purchasing the book for $170 like I did yesterday, but gimme a break.
This seems slightly comparable to drug companies that gouge for their medications and court doctors.
OOooooh well. This is being a student in America I suppose.
I keep thinking it is Friday. Maybe wishful thinking?
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Because I have a minute
Our network is currently down here at work, so I thought I'd take this moment to do a quick catch up on the things that I have not been able to catch up on.
This is the beginning of the school year, which means busy - ness for me at work as well as life. Things seem to be picking up in all areas, but the last few weeks have involved much of me just running back and forth and being at the mercy of whomever has a question to ask me... which is fine, really. I quite enjoy being able to answer questions, I just also enjoy a few moments of silence in between the chaos. The result of a busy work life is that I simply want to be at home afterwards and watch whatever bad tv I can find. I actually have had that luxury the last two nights, which is a great thing because tonight I begin my school process with my class for the quarter. It is a marketing course, geared toward non-profit organizations. I hope it will in turn make me more marketable as future employee of some non-profit organization who needs me.
I can't tell you that the thought of sitting in a classroom tonight after a day of work thrills me, but I am anxious to get back to working toward something. The summer seems to be about enjoyment while the fall, for me, is geared toward getting things done. I have to think this is somewhat a result in the fact that the weather begs to be combatted against (cold days and colder nights as well as early sunsets).
My parents have successfully moved out of their home (praise Jebus) and are currently residing in my brother's summer home in South Haven, Michigan. I have it in me that I should go visit them for a weekend as the house is right near the lake and I would like one more weekend of summer if I could... but who knows.
I'm so upset with politics right now I can't even write about it. I was thinking this morning as I listened to NPR that I found it all to be so irritating and how inevitably politics can be nothing other than political. I was also thinking how this coverage must be so tiresome for the voices that have to speak it... over and over and over. I can't wait until November, but I also feel a bit scared of it.
My allergies reign.
OK!
This is the beginning of the school year, which means busy - ness for me at work as well as life. Things seem to be picking up in all areas, but the last few weeks have involved much of me just running back and forth and being at the mercy of whomever has a question to ask me... which is fine, really. I quite enjoy being able to answer questions, I just also enjoy a few moments of silence in between the chaos. The result of a busy work life is that I simply want to be at home afterwards and watch whatever bad tv I can find. I actually have had that luxury the last two nights, which is a great thing because tonight I begin my school process with my class for the quarter. It is a marketing course, geared toward non-profit organizations. I hope it will in turn make me more marketable as future employee of some non-profit organization who needs me.
I can't tell you that the thought of sitting in a classroom tonight after a day of work thrills me, but I am anxious to get back to working toward something. The summer seems to be about enjoyment while the fall, for me, is geared toward getting things done. I have to think this is somewhat a result in the fact that the weather begs to be combatted against (cold days and colder nights as well as early sunsets).
My parents have successfully moved out of their home (praise Jebus) and are currently residing in my brother's summer home in South Haven, Michigan. I have it in me that I should go visit them for a weekend as the house is right near the lake and I would like one more weekend of summer if I could... but who knows.
I'm so upset with politics right now I can't even write about it. I was thinking this morning as I listened to NPR that I found it all to be so irritating and how inevitably politics can be nothing other than political. I was also thinking how this coverage must be so tiresome for the voices that have to speak it... over and over and over. I can't wait until November, but I also feel a bit scared of it.
My allergies reign.
OK!
Thursday, September 4, 2008
As they usually do
Hi all.
I am exhausted today. I have not slept properly since my return from Portland and I really haven't had the chance to simply rest, so I think it is catching up with me and my mood.
Today is a rainy day and I welcome it. It feels appropriate as I returned Monday to find 90 degree temps and frustrating humidity. Today feels gloomy, but ok and I have to think that fall is beginning to show its slower self. Shh, my dear. I know. *pats head*
I realized today that I didn't give a birthday shout out to my lovely Jessica as she celebrated on Tuesday. In fact, we celebrated as we went and had a lovely dinner at the Skylark down in Pilsen. It was good to be able to get together, chat, be with good folks. I was glad Jessica had a birthday simply for that reason. :)
So, I have yet to watch all of Sarah Palin's speech. I plan to do that before the day is over. I continue to read about it and I feel impressed by the overwhelming media coverage of it all, but I find myself asking for what reason? I have many more thoughts on this, but I am going to wait to put them in writing. In the meantime, I think some ecards will say it best for all of us (as they usually do.)
Oh, and ps. Mary and I had the idea for these cards first... we just don't have good follow through. Oh well!
Off to search for motivation.
I am exhausted today. I have not slept properly since my return from Portland and I really haven't had the chance to simply rest, so I think it is catching up with me and my mood.
Today is a rainy day and I welcome it. It feels appropriate as I returned Monday to find 90 degree temps and frustrating humidity. Today feels gloomy, but ok and I have to think that fall is beginning to show its slower self. Shh, my dear. I know. *pats head*
I realized today that I didn't give a birthday shout out to my lovely Jessica as she celebrated on Tuesday. In fact, we celebrated as we went and had a lovely dinner at the Skylark down in Pilsen. It was good to be able to get together, chat, be with good folks. I was glad Jessica had a birthday simply for that reason. :)
So, I have yet to watch all of Sarah Palin's speech. I plan to do that before the day is over. I continue to read about it and I feel impressed by the overwhelming media coverage of it all, but I find myself asking for what reason? I have many more thoughts on this, but I am going to wait to put them in writing. In the meantime, I think some ecards will say it best for all of us (as they usually do.)
Oh, and ps. Mary and I had the idea for these cards first... we just don't have good follow through. Oh well!
Off to search for motivation.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
And he's back again...
Just as quickly as I left, I have returned from the chilly mountains of the pacific northwest to the sweltering pavement of Chicago.
Can I make one quick observation about this city that is not directly related to my visit to Portland, but certainly includes that experience? Chicago is a very real city. I don't know how better to articulate that, but it was as simple as getting on the plane late last night with my fellow returning travelers and I was reminded that this city is simply more real than most others I have visited. Maybe more on this another time (as I don't want to taint my Portland words) but in some ways it is as simple as that.
Ok, but Portland on the other hand is indeed a beautiful city. Stunning in fact. Nestled in mountains and full of thoughtfully crunchy folk who seem to take good care of themselves and their land. I mean, they even have big 'ol trees in the center of downtown and there are more independent coffee shops than a boy could ever hope for. It is unique and interesting place that I enjoyed.
In short, I arrived late on Friday evening to be greeted by my dear host, Ellen (the sister of the groom.) Saturday I explored the city with a friend from High School and his wife before we made our way to the woods for the wedding. It was everything charming, quirky and picturesque. The ceremony took place next to a babbling brook (frealz) and the bride and groom were thoughtful with their vows to each and other and the vows they made to those in attendance (awesome idea!) The festivities afterwards were in the same location with great home made food, beer from mason jars, and dancing until the wee hours in the woods. Here are some quick pics.
Glasses in the morning. Contacts at night.
Andy, making plans.
Little birds in a store.
I bought these. They don't need dirt to grow.
Robin and Dave arrive at the wedding.
Setting up tents before the wedding.
Robin will forever be a leaning post for her tall friends (since like umm age 11?)
Someone sewed these napkins for everyone.
The Ceremony.
The bride and the groom with the o-town crowd.
Bzzzz.
My gracious hosts.
The best part of the evening. The first dance began like this...
Then turned into this...
And this...
And out of the nowhere, this... (all to come sail away)
Honestly, it was freaking cold in Portland. As much as I'm not a fan of the heat, I was not prepared for the cold temps. So, in an effort to stay warm, we danced.
And danced.
Then the morning after.
We were so cold in the morning that we tried to soak in all the sun we could.
Then when all was said and done, Robin, Dave and I made a tired trip to the stunning coast.
Recognize this rock?
Obviously, stunning.
So the remainder of the trip involved eating and eating and more exploring of the city. All in all it was really amazing and I find myself fairly exhausted upon the return. I'm thankful though for such wonderful childhood friends who can fantastically fun in both the midwest and the pacific northwest and be fantastically fun.
Can I make one quick observation about this city that is not directly related to my visit to Portland, but certainly includes that experience? Chicago is a very real city. I don't know how better to articulate that, but it was as simple as getting on the plane late last night with my fellow returning travelers and I was reminded that this city is simply more real than most others I have visited. Maybe more on this another time (as I don't want to taint my Portland words) but in some ways it is as simple as that.
Ok, but Portland on the other hand is indeed a beautiful city. Stunning in fact. Nestled in mountains and full of thoughtfully crunchy folk who seem to take good care of themselves and their land. I mean, they even have big 'ol trees in the center of downtown and there are more independent coffee shops than a boy could ever hope for. It is unique and interesting place that I enjoyed.
In short, I arrived late on Friday evening to be greeted by my dear host, Ellen (the sister of the groom.) Saturday I explored the city with a friend from High School and his wife before we made our way to the woods for the wedding. It was everything charming, quirky and picturesque. The ceremony took place next to a babbling brook (frealz) and the bride and groom were thoughtful with their vows to each and other and the vows they made to those in attendance (awesome idea!) The festivities afterwards were in the same location with great home made food, beer from mason jars, and dancing until the wee hours in the woods. Here are some quick pics.
Glasses in the morning. Contacts at night.
Andy, making plans.
Little birds in a store.
I bought these. They don't need dirt to grow.
Robin and Dave arrive at the wedding.
Setting up tents before the wedding.
Robin will forever be a leaning post for her tall friends (since like umm age 11?)
Someone sewed these napkins for everyone.
The Ceremony.
The bride and the groom with the o-town crowd.
Bzzzz.
My gracious hosts.
The best part of the evening. The first dance began like this...
Then turned into this...
And this...
And out of the nowhere, this... (all to come sail away)
Honestly, it was freaking cold in Portland. As much as I'm not a fan of the heat, I was not prepared for the cold temps. So, in an effort to stay warm, we danced.
And danced.
Then the morning after.
We were so cold in the morning that we tried to soak in all the sun we could.
Then when all was said and done, Robin, Dave and I made a tired trip to the stunning coast.
Recognize this rock?
Obviously, stunning.
So the remainder of the trip involved eating and eating and more exploring of the city. All in all it was really amazing and I find myself fairly exhausted upon the return. I'm thankful though for such wonderful childhood friends who can fantastically fun in both the midwest and the pacific northwest and be fantastically fun.
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