I suppose before I get caught up in another whirlwind of a week, I may as well record a few thoughts from the weekend....this will be random, but that's just a product of the way my weekend has been.
First of all, after the post on Saturday, I spent the rest of the day studying (sort of). I realized in the late afternoon and evening that my focus problem was probaby resulting from (1) being overwhelmed with mass amounts of information from class, and (2) finally starting to absorb the reality of what I have done over the last few months - as in quit my job, move, and start an entirely new career. Don't get me wrong, I am still happy about the decision, but that doesn't make it any less strange, and it doesn't make me any less lonely when I am buried in books on Saturday night. I spent some time last night trying to decide which church to visit today. As with restaurants and other various venues in Atlanta, there are more churches than I could possibly visit in the next two years. I finally decided to narrow my search to fairly close proximity (staying inside the perimeter). I am not determined to only visit PCA churches, but most of the other church websites I have visited (including some PCA) do not look like what will be a good fit for me.
I narrowed today's choices to about 4 locations and finally decided on the closest one, which was Christ Church Presbyterian. It was a good visit. I unfortunately have in my head a rudimentary grading system, which is not intended to judge the church but nonetheless helps me determine if I want to return. This church had a few people who scored highly on friendliness and a few who scored almost zero. I try to base this on mainly whether people take the initiative to greet me when given the right situation. For example, I sat down in the Sunday school class this morning at a round table across from 3 people. They all simply stared at me for about 20 seconds. Trust me, 20 seconds is a long time to sit across from people like that when you are the visitor. Anyway, finally one of them spoke up. I would have introduced myself first, but I was literally dumbfounded by how inconsiderate these people were. They were not talking amongst themselves, but literally sat there and made eye contact with me without saying a word. Anyway, there were several other people who were much more friendly and inviting. On to other scores... the preaching scored very highly. The senior pastor is British, so he gets points for the pleasant accent, not to mention he was well-spoken and preached straight from the scripture passage, which happened to be in Titus 1. The worship was also good, though I find it hard to immerse myself in worship in a new environment amongst a group of strangers. We had communion, and a slight lack of direction showed through because I had no idea what to do with my little cup when we were done. I didn't even see what anyone else did with theirs, because we were sitting, standing, and singing all during the communion. The atmosphere scored fairly low, though this will not make or break any church for me. The sanctuary almost had a warehouse feel and was decorated (in my opinion) kind of out of date. The best visual part about this room was the art displayed on the back wall, but I didn't notice that until I was on my way out. I guess that's more than enough about the church. I didn't really report on the one I went to last week, Intown Community Church. It scored high on friendliness, worship, and facilities. The preaching was good the morning I was there, but I listened to some older sermons that were kind of lacking direction. This is probably because they are in between senior pastors and have different people preaching every week.
In other news, I have already managed to let my checking account slip to require overdraft protection. Stupid! I haven't yet figured out the optimal plan for trasferring funds each month from my savings to checking (as I have no income), so obviously this month I was a bit late in making that transfer.
I noticed today that there is a Fresh Market on Peachtree Road, not too far from my place. I also noticed that this Fresh Market has a parking garage. A parking garage. For a grocery store. I love it. Thankfully, there is an elevator to prevent having to haul groceries down the stairs.
And last but not least, one more random thought. I have been reading some in Gray's Anatomy to accompany the other 3 books I have for class. I noticed in the author's bio that Henry Gray died at the age of 34. If you have ever read Gray's Anatomy, you will realize that this man accomplished a remarkable amount of work in his 34 years. The book literally describes every tiny portion of every part of every tissue or structure in the human body. It's amazing. To make it even more remarkable, he wrote it in the mid-1800s. I hope that in 6 years, when I am 34, I will have produced even a tenth of the amount of valuable information that Gray has left for us. Unfortunately, this blog will probably not count as part of that valuable information.
Sunday, June 04, 2006
Saturday, June 03, 2006
Lack of Blog
I will start by clarifying that the lack of blog this week has not been due to lack of material. It's been a very full and interesting week, but I've been quite busy. Last weekend I was pretty bored hanging around Atlanta mostly by myself, but I won't be bored again for at least another 6 weeks. My summer anatomy class started on Wednesday, and we will will be literally covering the whole body inside and out over the short span of six weeks. I will spare most details on the cadaver experience for a few reasons:
(1) I don't want to offend anyone who doesn't like such subjects.
(2) There really aren't sufficient words to describe the experience.
So if you have been there and done that, then you probably know what I mean. If you have not, trust me it is a unique, disturbing, interesting, humbling, demanding, and invigorating experience. If anyone else who has experienced it would like to offer up some adjectives, please share. I will say that my group is great and I know we will really glean a lot from this course. We have named our cadaver The Captain, so if I reference that name in the future you will know to whom I am referring.
Other happenings of the week included a small dinner party on Tuesday night with a few classmates, a trip to the Fabulous Fox Theatre on Thursday night to see the movie Crash, and the Jimmy Buffet concert last night at the HiFi Buys Amphitheatre. That was my first time to see Jimmy Buffet in concert, and I have to say I enjoyed it for the most part. Unfortunately, about an hour before the show, Atlanta experienced the worst rain and thunderstorm in recent memory, complete with terrifying lightning and raging rivers in the streets. I waited for most of this to pass and decided to go ahead and go to the concert, where we had "lawn" seats. The rain continued on and off for the entire evening, so for the first hour of the concert I was basically miserable and wishing I had not decided to tough it out. But after I was sufficiently soaked and able to stop kicking myself, I thoroughly enjoyed the music and had a great time.
After the concert, our group stopped at Waffle House for coffee and a midnight meal. I am sorry to report that we received absolutely sub-par service. We must have been there 20 minutes before anyone even had a cup of hot coffee in front of them, and the rest of the experience was just as bad if not worse.
Today I have tried my best to study but am having trouble focusing. I decided around 11:30 to go to a nearby cafe and try to study there, but it turned out to be much less cool than it looked. Well, it actually was pretty cool, but there were no other customers. I also didn't see any employees in the cafe, so I wasn't feeling positive about being able to get lunch there. The place is part of Defoor Centre, which also has an art gallery and used book store. I walked through the book store (which is basically like a dilapidated library) and wasn't terribly impressed. One guy, apparently an employee, was sitting in the bookstore but was not very friendly. He obviously likes books more than people, as he managed to make eye contact with me but did not so much as say hello when I cheerily greeted him and asked how he was doing (as any good Southerner would do). So I left that place, picked up a sub to go, and now I'm back home trying to focus here. So far I have managed only to eat my sub and write this blog. Maybe now I will start studying.
(1) I don't want to offend anyone who doesn't like such subjects.
(2) There really aren't sufficient words to describe the experience.
So if you have been there and done that, then you probably know what I mean. If you have not, trust me it is a unique, disturbing, interesting, humbling, demanding, and invigorating experience. If anyone else who has experienced it would like to offer up some adjectives, please share. I will say that my group is great and I know we will really glean a lot from this course. We have named our cadaver The Captain, so if I reference that name in the future you will know to whom I am referring.
Other happenings of the week included a small dinner party on Tuesday night with a few classmates, a trip to the Fabulous Fox Theatre on Thursday night to see the movie Crash, and the Jimmy Buffet concert last night at the HiFi Buys Amphitheatre. That was my first time to see Jimmy Buffet in concert, and I have to say I enjoyed it for the most part. Unfortunately, about an hour before the show, Atlanta experienced the worst rain and thunderstorm in recent memory, complete with terrifying lightning and raging rivers in the streets. I waited for most of this to pass and decided to go ahead and go to the concert, where we had "lawn" seats. The rain continued on and off for the entire evening, so for the first hour of the concert I was basically miserable and wishing I had not decided to tough it out. But after I was sufficiently soaked and able to stop kicking myself, I thoroughly enjoyed the music and had a great time.
After the concert, our group stopped at Waffle House for coffee and a midnight meal. I am sorry to report that we received absolutely sub-par service. We must have been there 20 minutes before anyone even had a cup of hot coffee in front of them, and the rest of the experience was just as bad if not worse.
Today I have tried my best to study but am having trouble focusing. I decided around 11:30 to go to a nearby cafe and try to study there, but it turned out to be much less cool than it looked. Well, it actually was pretty cool, but there were no other customers. I also didn't see any employees in the cafe, so I wasn't feeling positive about being able to get lunch there. The place is part of Defoor Centre, which also has an art gallery and used book store. I walked through the book store (which is basically like a dilapidated library) and wasn't terribly impressed. One guy, apparently an employee, was sitting in the bookstore but was not very friendly. He obviously likes books more than people, as he managed to make eye contact with me but did not so much as say hello when I cheerily greeted him and asked how he was doing (as any good Southerner would do). So I left that place, picked up a sub to go, and now I'm back home trying to focus here. So far I have managed only to eat my sub and write this blog. Maybe now I will start studying.
Saturday, May 27, 2006
Atlanta Notes
A few things noted thus far about Atlanta and it's largeness:
1. I now have 6 phone books instead of 1.
2. I cannot count the Waffle Houses, but I estimate there are between 150-200 in the Atlanta metro area. I have noticed there is no comprehensive map (that I can find) which marks all the WHs. I may make an attempt at this if I ever become computer savvy.
3. There are upwards of 80,000 registered tennis players.
4. No matter where you go, there is a parking "plan". As in, they will indicate either on their website or in front of their establishment where you can and cannot park if you are going to their place. This goes for restaurants, churches, everything.
5. Just minutes from my condo is the start of a paved trail (for biking, running, walking, etc) that extends all the way to the Georgia-Alabama state line. I think it's about 60 miles long. In Augusta, the longest trail of this type was approximately 6 miles long.
6. There are 10 Presbyterian PCA churches in Atlanta. That only includes Atlanta proper. There are more in Alpharetta and other such suburbs. I am not limiting my church search to the PCA, but it could take months just to visit all of these, which I don't intend to do.
This is all I have so far, after 2 days of officially living in Atlanta. I'm not overwhelmed by this city as much as I am just dumbfounded. I mean, I've been here before, but I've never fully appreciated the sheer swell of activity marked with such well established efficiency. The city is always growing and changing, but it is intimately in tune with and adapting to itself. I love it.
1. I now have 6 phone books instead of 1.
2. I cannot count the Waffle Houses, but I estimate there are between 150-200 in the Atlanta metro area. I have noticed there is no comprehensive map (that I can find) which marks all the WHs. I may make an attempt at this if I ever become computer savvy.
3. There are upwards of 80,000 registered tennis players.
4. No matter where you go, there is a parking "plan". As in, they will indicate either on their website or in front of their establishment where you can and cannot park if you are going to their place. This goes for restaurants, churches, everything.
5. Just minutes from my condo is the start of a paved trail (for biking, running, walking, etc) that extends all the way to the Georgia-Alabama state line. I think it's about 60 miles long. In Augusta, the longest trail of this type was approximately 6 miles long.
6. There are 10 Presbyterian PCA churches in Atlanta. That only includes Atlanta proper. There are more in Alpharetta and other such suburbs. I am not limiting my church search to the PCA, but it could take months just to visit all of these, which I don't intend to do.
This is all I have so far, after 2 days of officially living in Atlanta. I'm not overwhelmed by this city as much as I am just dumbfounded. I mean, I've been here before, but I've never fully appreciated the sheer swell of activity marked with such well established efficiency. The city is always growing and changing, but it is intimately in tune with and adapting to itself. I love it.
Thursday, May 25, 2006
The Rest of the Story
The last post regarding Baton Rouge was made on Sunday afternoon. I did make it to that graduation party Sunday evening and saw all people I thought I would see minus Jill. I did see Jill's mother that night, though, so we arranged to get together later in the week for happy hour one day. It was so strange but so natural to be back in the midst of those old friends. I know they are like part of my family by how easy it is to hang out with them even after years go by without nearly enough communication. In fact, when I finally saw Jill on Tues evening and met her new husband, we decided it had been about 10 years since we had seen one another. I'm not sure how that happened, but I certainly hope it doesn't stretch that long again. I could go on about details of the evening on Sunday, but mostly it was just good old-fashioned catching up with people. Aunt Mary's house is still as great as I remembered. I always thought that they rented a frozen margarita machine for the annual Cinco de Mayo party, but I am happy to report that they actually own it. So I didn't miss all the Cinco fun after all. I unfortunately did not get any photos that evening, but I did get one with Jill and Mark on Tuesday night. Here we are atop the LSU Museum of Art downtown overlooking the Mississippi Bridge:
The restaurant/bar atop the museum is a sushi place called Tsunami and is a refreshingly cool place, with an obviously great veiw, for Baton Rouge.
Also, I mentioned Sarah's wedding previously but did not include photos. The first one below is of me, Sarah, and our friend Brandi. We were all friends starting at about age 4. Brandi and I played T-ball together, and we were all in girl scouts together. Brandi, sadly, moved when we were 14. It was great to get together again. The second photo is all of us from McKinley High that were at the wedding. From left, it is me, Kimee, Sarah, Cindy, and Amanda. We of course recounted the good old days and lamented the tragedy of working life. I was happy to report that I don't work anymore, though I think I will find soon that school may be harder than work was for me. We will all see each other again in July at our 10-year reunion.
The remainder of my visit, I tried as much as possible to pretend I was at the beach. Despite the lack of water, it worked pretty well. I ran every other day, walked the dog on off days, read a book, worked on my tan, etc. Tuesday morning I played Canasta with my mom's card group, which was fun. My last night, Wednesday night, my parents took me out for a very nice dinner at a place called Juban's. I got kudos because I ate everything on my plate, which included two veal chops served over mashed potatoes with crabmeat on top and some sort of asparagus-broccoli vegetable on the side. I also had a drink called "The New Old-Fasion", which was pretty good. A nice final meal (for this trip) in the greatest culinary state of these United States.
Sunday, May 21, 2006
Red Stick Ramblings
I have been back home in Baton Rouge now since Thursday. It's funny, when I tell people in other places that I am from Baton Rouge, they always repeat the name back to me, but in the best fake Cajun-French accent they can muster. "Oh, Baatonne Roooje!?!" I always smile politely and nod, but I really think this is very obnoxious. If you don't live in Baton Rouge, trust me, the natives are not impressed with your best fake accent. And we don't say it that way anyway. I've tried to come up with a correlation, like if someone from Shanghai told me they were from Shanghai, and I said, "Oh, Shunghiiyah!" Thankfully I don't do that, nor have I heard anyone try, so why try to butcher Baton Rouge?
During my few days back here so far, which is my first visit in a year, I have been re-introduced very harshly to the oppressive heat in South Louisiana. If you live in middle to northern Alabama or anywhere in Georgia, I can assure you that what you think of as hot is no comparison to this. It's not even summer yet! I ran three miles this morning (morning, as in coolest time of day), and my body insisted it had been a marathon. You can't drink enough water to keep up with the constant loss of water due to massive perspiration. Oppressive is really the only word I can think of to describe it.
On a more lively note, I have truly enjoyed seeing some old friends, several of which I had not seen in many years. Most of my visits since college graduation (in 2000) have been brief ones during which I fly in, have some pre-arranged event to attend, spend 2-3 nights max, and fly back to Georgia. This visit has been pleasant due to my current jobless state, which is allowing me to stay for a week, not have to keep up with any work issues, and I also have my car because I drove here. After my arrival on Thursday, I drove over to my friend Sarah's house for a nice visit with her, her parents, and her best friend from college. Her wedding was last night, which was a big reason I came home this particular week and why she happens to be in town. The wedding was beautiful, and it was so great to see some of the other guests. Sarah and I have known one another since pre-school, and we were in school together through high school, so we had a lot of mutual friends and acquaintances over the years. One of our best grade school friends, Brandi, was at the wedding with her mother and gorgeous little five-year-old boy. Many of our parents' friends were there, most of whom my parents still stay in touch with but who I rarely see. Additionally, several of our high school friends were there. We stay in touch decently over e-mail, but we are rarely all in Baton Rouge at the same time.
Friday night, which I sort of skipped over, I went downtown with my parents for a great evening of live music called "Live After Five". We stayed for a few hours and spent some time walking around downtown to see the buildings that my dad is involved with some business deals for. His new office was in one of the buildings, and another one is an old hotel that he and his partner will be managing the renovation of. I wish I had gotten some pictures, as it was a beautiful late afternoon downtown, but I did not bring the camera. After a few cold beers, some jambalaya for an appetizer, and a good dose of bluesy soul music, my parents and I left the downtown party for a crawfish boil. What a treat the crawfish boil was! I didn't really know anyone there, though I met a very nice couple who had adopted a child from Romania 6 years ago. I spoke with that woman for most of the party and heard about her hopes and dreams for this little boy who they rescued from a dire situation in Bucharest. I went to Bucharest in 2002 on a mission trip and saw so many children there who are without homes or families, so it was encouraging to hear of at least one success story. After a long wait for the crawfish to be unveiled, we had the pleasure of eating our fill of some of the best boiled crawfish I have ever had. They also had jambalaya, boudin balls, and huge boiled shrimp. I had a few boudin balls but mainly stuck to the crawfish. I ate until I couldn't eat anymore - it was wonderful!
Back to visiting with friends... tonight I am headed to a graduation party for Emily, a high school friend who graduated yesterday from LSU Law School. This party will take place at Emily's Aunt Mary's house, a very lively and never-disappointing party venue. Aunt Mary also hosts an annual Cinco de Mayo party which I unfortunately missed this year. So tonight I will see Emily and many of our other friends from high school: Leanne who graduated yesterday from LSU Dental School and is getting married next month, Carrie (Leanne's sister) who is six months pregnant, and hopefully Jill who's wedding I missed in March.
As you can see, it has been a busy visit so far, but I have also had a lot of time to relax. I am even working on a tan for the first time in years. Yesterday I layed out in the yard for about 30 minutes and practically burned. Reference oppressive heat as mentioned above.
During my few days back here so far, which is my first visit in a year, I have been re-introduced very harshly to the oppressive heat in South Louisiana. If you live in middle to northern Alabama or anywhere in Georgia, I can assure you that what you think of as hot is no comparison to this. It's not even summer yet! I ran three miles this morning (morning, as in coolest time of day), and my body insisted it had been a marathon. You can't drink enough water to keep up with the constant loss of water due to massive perspiration. Oppressive is really the only word I can think of to describe it.
On a more lively note, I have truly enjoyed seeing some old friends, several of which I had not seen in many years. Most of my visits since college graduation (in 2000) have been brief ones during which I fly in, have some pre-arranged event to attend, spend 2-3 nights max, and fly back to Georgia. This visit has been pleasant due to my current jobless state, which is allowing me to stay for a week, not have to keep up with any work issues, and I also have my car because I drove here. After my arrival on Thursday, I drove over to my friend Sarah's house for a nice visit with her, her parents, and her best friend from college. Her wedding was last night, which was a big reason I came home this particular week and why she happens to be in town. The wedding was beautiful, and it was so great to see some of the other guests. Sarah and I have known one another since pre-school, and we were in school together through high school, so we had a lot of mutual friends and acquaintances over the years. One of our best grade school friends, Brandi, was at the wedding with her mother and gorgeous little five-year-old boy. Many of our parents' friends were there, most of whom my parents still stay in touch with but who I rarely see. Additionally, several of our high school friends were there. We stay in touch decently over e-mail, but we are rarely all in Baton Rouge at the same time.
Friday night, which I sort of skipped over, I went downtown with my parents for a great evening of live music called "Live After Five". We stayed for a few hours and spent some time walking around downtown to see the buildings that my dad is involved with some business deals for. His new office was in one of the buildings, and another one is an old hotel that he and his partner will be managing the renovation of. I wish I had gotten some pictures, as it was a beautiful late afternoon downtown, but I did not bring the camera. After a few cold beers, some jambalaya for an appetizer, and a good dose of bluesy soul music, my parents and I left the downtown party for a crawfish boil. What a treat the crawfish boil was! I didn't really know anyone there, though I met a very nice couple who had adopted a child from Romania 6 years ago. I spoke with that woman for most of the party and heard about her hopes and dreams for this little boy who they rescued from a dire situation in Bucharest. I went to Bucharest in 2002 on a mission trip and saw so many children there who are without homes or families, so it was encouraging to hear of at least one success story. After a long wait for the crawfish to be unveiled, we had the pleasure of eating our fill of some of the best boiled crawfish I have ever had. They also had jambalaya, boudin balls, and huge boiled shrimp. I had a few boudin balls but mainly stuck to the crawfish. I ate until I couldn't eat anymore - it was wonderful!
Back to visiting with friends... tonight I am headed to a graduation party for Emily, a high school friend who graduated yesterday from LSU Law School. This party will take place at Emily's Aunt Mary's house, a very lively and never-disappointing party venue. Aunt Mary also hosts an annual Cinco de Mayo party which I unfortunately missed this year. So tonight I will see Emily and many of our other friends from high school: Leanne who graduated yesterday from LSU Dental School and is getting married next month, Carrie (Leanne's sister) who is six months pregnant, and hopefully Jill who's wedding I missed in March.
As you can see, it has been a busy visit so far, but I have also had a lot of time to relax. I am even working on a tan for the first time in years. Yesterday I layed out in the yard for about 30 minutes and practically burned. Reference oppressive heat as mentioned above.
Monday, May 15, 2006
What a Wonderful Day
Today was another busy day as I am still settling into the new place in Atlanta. I had one almost entirely fruitless trip to the GT campus and one slightly better trip to run errands. Most of the to-do list for the day still remains to be done. However, I must say it was a wonderful day, and I will tell you why. It was my great and wonderful pleasure to embark on a new Waffle House today. Not just new, but opened for the first time this morning! Unfortunately, this find occurred late in the afternoon, which was not an opportune time to stop and eat. I did, however, stop to see what all the fanfare was about - there was a tent out front with what appeared to be some sort of giveaway trinkets. Wow, am I ever delighted that I stopped! It turns out they were giving away official Waffle House coffee mugs. I explained that I would definitely be back to eat sometime, as WH is my favorite restaurant. I don't know if they believed me or cared, but I did walk away with my very own mug. For those of you who don't know and have never tried to get a WH mug, they do not sell those mugs. You would have to steal one to get one, and I am not about to steal from my favorite establishment (or any other establishment I hope). Of all my worldly possessions, most of which I just packed up and moved here from Augusta, this new WH mug is one of my very favorites. So, if you ever come over to my place and I offer you the WH mug for your coffee, you will know that I truly do love you.
Saturday, May 13, 2006
Signing On
Just a few short days after signing off, I am happy to report that I am back in the e-world from a new location. I don't actually have internet access in the new place yet, but I am tapping into someone's wireless. I have moved into a huge condo community here in Atlanta, and so far I think I am going to love it. It's extremely close to school, and everything I need other than school is close by: bank, dry cleaners, McDonald's, 13 sub restaurants, 9 chinese take-out places, 4 pizza joints, and various other eateries and bars. The only thing I haven't found yet is a grocery store, and considering the prices at most of the local restaurants, I better find one soon. Every time I go outside here, someone is walking or running by, most with dogs, so I think Kelsey and I will fit in well. Unfortunately, Kelsey is not transitioning real well just yet. She has apparently been pretty stressed out with the sudden change, and she hasn't eaten since yesterday morning. She also hasn't pooped, which may be because she hasn't eaten. I hope she can get herself adjusted soon. I suspect she will like indoor living and getting walked at least twice a day, but so far she doesn't seem too pleased with being stuck inside.
I'll have more to report as I get settled in, but as for tonight, I'm whipped. Just wanted to go ahead and get in the first blog from Atlanta here on my first night in Atlanta.
I'll have more to report as I get settled in, but as for tonight, I'm whipped. Just wanted to go ahead and get in the first blog from Atlanta here on my first night in Atlanta.
Thursday, May 11, 2006
Signing Off
Alas, sadly, this is my last blog, last hoorah, last stroke of the keys from here at Oakdale. I am running out of things to pack here on the last day of packing, and so the computer must be dismantled and boxed. She will be resurrected in Atlanta, but probably not with internet access (we'll see how the $$ goes). Never fear though: have laptop, will use free wifi.
A few noteworthy updates before I pack this puppy up:
>> I finally sold the lawnmower today, and for a good price. The same buyer also bought two of the items I was planning to give away. So in addition to the lawnmower price, she paid $5 for two free items. Not a bad deal for me, but she seemed pleased.
>> With the house back on the market, two people wanted to see it today. Not the best day for "showing" the house due to mass chaos, but at least there is some traffic.
>> My car is still at the body shop, but they assure me it will be ready tomorrow. I feel better if I fully believe that to be true, so I believe it.
>> As a result of the first item above (and because I am moving), I officially mowed my lawn for the last time today. Future lawn maintenance will be done by someone other than myself. It will cost me, but I am ok with that.
>> There are still many free items up for grabs, so if you are here in Augusta, stop on by and browse. You may either take the free items for free or offer me money for them as the nice lady did earlier today.
Over and out.
A few noteworthy updates before I pack this puppy up:
>> I finally sold the lawnmower today, and for a good price. The same buyer also bought two of the items I was planning to give away. So in addition to the lawnmower price, she paid $5 for two free items. Not a bad deal for me, but she seemed pleased.
>> With the house back on the market, two people wanted to see it today. Not the best day for "showing" the house due to mass chaos, but at least there is some traffic.
>> My car is still at the body shop, but they assure me it will be ready tomorrow. I feel better if I fully believe that to be true, so I believe it.
>> As a result of the first item above (and because I am moving), I officially mowed my lawn for the last time today. Future lawn maintenance will be done by someone other than myself. It will cost me, but I am ok with that.
>> There are still many free items up for grabs, so if you are here in Augusta, stop on by and browse. You may either take the free items for free or offer me money for them as the nice lady did earlier today.
Over and out.
Tuesday, May 09, 2006
Ho Hum, or Not
I unknowingly entered this week, my last week in Augusta, realizing that I had a lot to do but really thinking it would go pretty smoothly and ho hum. Well, lets just say it's not going so smoothly. So far these things aren't getting me too worked up, as I know that it will all be fine, but a few hiccups as of right now are:
(1) Yesterday, on my way to play my last 9 holes of golf as an Augustan, I was rear-ended by a lady in a big ole Dodge truck. So now, with 4 days remaining here in Augusta, my car is in the body shop. Everything seems to be cool with her insurance, but who knows? Hopefully the work will finish by Friday, as the trusty guy at Rick's assured me it would.
(2) Today, I got the news that my house is no longer under contract. We were scheduled to close next week, but I did not agree to repair a few items that the buyer insisted on having repaired. So we're back to square one on selling the house. I'm pretty confident that it will still sell easily, but it was sure nice to have that all taken care of already, or so I thought.
Hopefully that will be the end of the hiccups and the rest of the week will be ho hum, but I'm not holding my breath...
(1) Yesterday, on my way to play my last 9 holes of golf as an Augustan, I was rear-ended by a lady in a big ole Dodge truck. So now, with 4 days remaining here in Augusta, my car is in the body shop. Everything seems to be cool with her insurance, but who knows? Hopefully the work will finish by Friday, as the trusty guy at Rick's assured me it would.
(2) Today, I got the news that my house is no longer under contract. We were scheduled to close next week, but I did not agree to repair a few items that the buyer insisted on having repaired. So we're back to square one on selling the house. I'm pretty confident that it will still sell easily, but it was sure nice to have that all taken care of already, or so I thought.
Hopefully that will be the end of the hiccups and the rest of the week will be ho hum, but I'm not holding my breath...
Sunday, May 07, 2006
Truth:::Truth:::Truth
Do you ever feel like God is really bringing home a certain message to you? It’s interesting sometimes, how we come across the same truth in different forms all in a short span of time. Today, I’ve been pointedly reminded over and over of the best truth of all:
Every single day that goes by, I don’t measure up to the righteousness that God requires of me. And every single day, the righteousness of Christ is freely offered to me as a replacement for what I cannot attain on my own.
The 3 reminders I had of this today were as follows:
(1) This morning’s sermon at church was from Luke 4, where Jesus was tempted by the devil. Three separate times, Jesus was challenged to turn from God, and all three times Jesus did what you and I cannot do. He remembered God’s command, he clung to God’s promises, and he resisted the temptation before him. And because we cannot do this, God allows the performance of Christ to be ours as well.
(2) After church, I went to Waffle House for my usual Sunday breakfast, though I usually go before church. I brought my Bible to read while eating, and I turned to Romans 12, where I left off yesterday morning. As I was reading, I noticed an underlined verse on the previous page, Romans 11:32. It says, “For God has bound all men over to disobedience so that he may have mercy on them all.” Not only does God freely offer his mercy to us, he reminds us that there is not one person who is not in need of it, not one.
(3) This afternoon, I was reading The Great Divorce, by C.S. Lewis. I actually wanted to pick up a simple novel a few days ago and realized that I have already packed them all. So instead I picked up this book, the only unpacked book that I have not yet read. I don’t exactly understand what’s going on in the book, but I think the characters are people who have died and are either in heaven or hell, or somewhere in between. Two of them get into a heated discussion. One guy, who is not in heaven, says, “Look at me, now. I gone straight all my life. I don’t say I was a religious man and I don’t say I had no faults, far from it. But I done my best all my life, see? I done my best by everyone, that’s the sort of chap I was. I never asked for anything that wasn’t mine by rights. If I wanted a drink I paid for it and if I took my wages I done my job, see? That’s the sort of chap I was and I don’t care who knows it.” Another guy, who is in heaven, sort of starts arguing with him that it really doesn’t matter. But the guy continues in his tirade, “What do you keep arguing for? I’m only telling you the sort of chap I am. I only want my rights. I’m not asking for anybody’s bleeding charity.” The guy in heaven responds, “Then do. At once. Ask for the Bleeding Charity. Everything is here for the asking and nothing can be bought.”
Wow, what a great reminder of the same beautiful truth. We so badly want to earn just what we feel we deserve in this life and beyond. Thank God that he does not give us what we deserve. Instead, he gives us what Christ deserves. The “Bleeding Charity” is ours for the taking if we will only admit that we cannot earn its rewards on our own.
Every single day that goes by, I don’t measure up to the righteousness that God requires of me. And every single day, the righteousness of Christ is freely offered to me as a replacement for what I cannot attain on my own.
The 3 reminders I had of this today were as follows:
(1) This morning’s sermon at church was from Luke 4, where Jesus was tempted by the devil. Three separate times, Jesus was challenged to turn from God, and all three times Jesus did what you and I cannot do. He remembered God’s command, he clung to God’s promises, and he resisted the temptation before him. And because we cannot do this, God allows the performance of Christ to be ours as well.
(2) After church, I went to Waffle House for my usual Sunday breakfast, though I usually go before church. I brought my Bible to read while eating, and I turned to Romans 12, where I left off yesterday morning. As I was reading, I noticed an underlined verse on the previous page, Romans 11:32. It says, “For God has bound all men over to disobedience so that he may have mercy on them all.” Not only does God freely offer his mercy to us, he reminds us that there is not one person who is not in need of it, not one.
(3) This afternoon, I was reading The Great Divorce, by C.S. Lewis. I actually wanted to pick up a simple novel a few days ago and realized that I have already packed them all. So instead I picked up this book, the only unpacked book that I have not yet read. I don’t exactly understand what’s going on in the book, but I think the characters are people who have died and are either in heaven or hell, or somewhere in between. Two of them get into a heated discussion. One guy, who is not in heaven, says, “Look at me, now. I gone straight all my life. I don’t say I was a religious man and I don’t say I had no faults, far from it. But I done my best all my life, see? I done my best by everyone, that’s the sort of chap I was. I never asked for anything that wasn’t mine by rights. If I wanted a drink I paid for it and if I took my wages I done my job, see? That’s the sort of chap I was and I don’t care who knows it.” Another guy, who is in heaven, sort of starts arguing with him that it really doesn’t matter. But the guy continues in his tirade, “What do you keep arguing for? I’m only telling you the sort of chap I am. I only want my rights. I’m not asking for anybody’s bleeding charity.” The guy in heaven responds, “Then do. At once. Ask for the Bleeding Charity. Everything is here for the asking and nothing can be bought.”
Wow, what a great reminder of the same beautiful truth. We so badly want to earn just what we feel we deserve in this life and beyond. Thank God that he does not give us what we deserve. Instead, he gives us what Christ deserves. The “Bleeding Charity” is ours for the taking if we will only admit that we cannot earn its rewards on our own.
Friday, May 05, 2006
Happenings
Well, I don't have much to say of interest, but every now and then the simple blog needs a simple update on life. So below is an update on the accomplishments and happenings of the past week:
1) Began the arduous task of packing up the house. My estimation is that I am a little over half- way finished.
2) Took my last test for Anatomy/Physiology. Don't know the result yet, but I know I passed the class regardless, which is good.
3) Changed magazine addresses, filled out USPS change of address, changed address for most important billing entities.
4) Finally got updated prescription filled for my new glasses (long story, but I couldn't see). Now I can see with the pricey glasses, which is very nice.
5) Exercised minimally: one short run, one long walk. My excuse is that my allergies have been horrendous for all outdoor activities lately, including running.
6) Mowed front yard. Sneezed my head off.
7) Made various repairs to house as a result of home inspection. Some are still in progress, but thankfully nothing major.
8) Went to doctor... Let's just say this is the least fun doctor for women to visit. I did not have fun.
9) Dropped off a trunk full of clothes (some mine, some a friend of mine's) at the goodwill store.
10) Went to The Pink Dipper (Old Fashioned Ice-Cream Parlour) for the first time. Thanks to Julie for this treat!
11) Had last dinner/meeting with my Bible study at a local Mexican joint. I got the Pollo Fundido (chicken chimichanga), and it was good!
12) Booked a flight to Miami so that I can visit Christine and Adam in August. Yeah!
13) Signed up for September WIC conference in Atlanta. Presbyterians like to do such things way in advance. Thankfully, I still got the "early" rate on May 4 even though the cutoff date was supposed to be May 1.
14) Had final hoorah with the engineering crowd from work. Dinner, bar, campfire in Matt's backyard. It was a long but good evening.
15) Sold back my textbooks at ASU for some quick cash. Very nice.
16) Went to scope out a new coffee shop called The Jury Room, which just opened in downtown Augusta on Wednesday. Very cool place. I would recommend that any and all people who have occasion to be downtown between 7am and 4pm go there for breakfast, lunch, or a snack.
17) Played my last tennis match with the Aiken team on Sunday. Thankfully won, and also had a great time playing. I will miss those ladies, and I hope to find a good team in Atlanta.
I guess that's about it. For tomorrow, my dear friends have planned a goodbye brunch for me. The plan was to have a nice outdoor setup in Julie's backyard. I have no doubt that Julie has worked very hard (and maybe others as well) to ensure a perfectly appointed party atmosphere. Right now it is raining. I hope this is not upsetting things too much for the planners. I am just looking forward to seeing everyone and spending time together, whether it be in the yard, the living room, or the garage. I do remember, though, when I helped plan an outdoor party for Christine and Adam's engagement which was profusely rained on. We had to move it all inside. I was bummed.
1) Began the arduous task of packing up the house. My estimation is that I am a little over half- way finished.
2) Took my last test for Anatomy/Physiology. Don't know the result yet, but I know I passed the class regardless, which is good.
3) Changed magazine addresses, filled out USPS change of address, changed address for most important billing entities.
4) Finally got updated prescription filled for my new glasses (long story, but I couldn't see). Now I can see with the pricey glasses, which is very nice.
5) Exercised minimally: one short run, one long walk. My excuse is that my allergies have been horrendous for all outdoor activities lately, including running.
6) Mowed front yard. Sneezed my head off.
7) Made various repairs to house as a result of home inspection. Some are still in progress, but thankfully nothing major.
8) Went to doctor... Let's just say this is the least fun doctor for women to visit. I did not have fun.
9) Dropped off a trunk full of clothes (some mine, some a friend of mine's) at the goodwill store.
10) Went to The Pink Dipper (Old Fashioned Ice-Cream Parlour) for the first time. Thanks to Julie for this treat!
11) Had last dinner/meeting with my Bible study at a local Mexican joint. I got the Pollo Fundido (chicken chimichanga), and it was good!
12) Booked a flight to Miami so that I can visit Christine and Adam in August. Yeah!
13) Signed up for September WIC conference in Atlanta. Presbyterians like to do such things way in advance. Thankfully, I still got the "early" rate on May 4 even though the cutoff date was supposed to be May 1.
14) Had final hoorah with the engineering crowd from work. Dinner, bar, campfire in Matt's backyard. It was a long but good evening.
15) Sold back my textbooks at ASU for some quick cash. Very nice.
16) Went to scope out a new coffee shop called The Jury Room, which just opened in downtown Augusta on Wednesday. Very cool place. I would recommend that any and all people who have occasion to be downtown between 7am and 4pm go there for breakfast, lunch, or a snack.
17) Played my last tennis match with the Aiken team on Sunday. Thankfully won, and also had a great time playing. I will miss those ladies, and I hope to find a good team in Atlanta.
I guess that's about it. For tomorrow, my dear friends have planned a goodbye brunch for me. The plan was to have a nice outdoor setup in Julie's backyard. I have no doubt that Julie has worked very hard (and maybe others as well) to ensure a perfectly appointed party atmosphere. Right now it is raining. I hope this is not upsetting things too much for the planners. I am just looking forward to seeing everyone and spending time together, whether it be in the yard, the living room, or the garage. I do remember, though, when I helped plan an outdoor party for Christine and Adam's engagement which was profusely rained on. We had to move it all inside. I was bummed.
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
Bamboo
You shouldn't need to look too closely at this photo to realize that the bamboo, sadly, is dead. The last smidgeon if green life at the tips of the leaves will soon become yellow as the stalks no longer pass nutrients through their lifeless cells. While lifeless plants are not normally a novelty at my house, this one struck me as interesting. These two stalks of bamboo have been a staple in my kitchen for over 3 years now. I obtained the bamboo, along with the nice vase, from my cousin Curt's wedding in December 2002. Once there were three stalks, but the third one did not live as long as these two. You will notice that the left stalk is significantly more prolonged in death than the right stalk. Just a little over a week ago, I sadly noted that the left stalk was struggling. I added water and hoped that it might be revived. Today, the verdict is apparently out: the left stalk will not be revived but take down the right one with it. My first thought was, "Oh good, one less thing to have to pack and move!" Then I sadly noted to myself that the death of the bamboo has occurred within eerie proximity to my departure from Augusta. I cannot ignore that a part of me is dying as I leave this place. I know it is necessary that some part of myself die in order to move forward and embrace a new city, new home, and new career - but I haven't yet reached the state of embracing that little death inside of me. I would be happy to pack the bamboo now and take it with me if I could avoid the inevitable pain it represents.
Monday, May 01, 2006
Official Unemployment
I am happy to report that the day has finally come: today is my first official weekday of unemployment. I have searched through old journals (which I use quite sparingly) to determine when I first started praying about leaving Plant Vogtle, but I cannot find the appropriate reference. I can say with a fair amount of confidence that I first thought of leaving after I had been at the plant for 18-24 months (I started there in September 2000). Before making a whimsical and rash move, I decided to buy a house in Augusta, forcing myself to stick it out at Vogtle for at least 2 more years. I bought the house in the summer of 2002, but my desire to leave never really went away completely. Sometime in 2003, I received some helpful advice from a friend (thank you, Emily) that God does not call us from something but to something. Granted, God would call us away from sin, but I could not claim any such relationship with my work. I still, however, felt that the job left much to be desired in life, so I began to pray that God would call me to something else. Thus began the waiting and praying. Specifically, I desired very much to be drawn to a career that would meet the following goals:
(1) Require less of a commute. I spent roughly 8-10 hours a week in the car driving to and from Vogtle.
(2) Offer flexibility in working hours that could accommodate family life. I do not have a family of my own but would like to, and I did not foresee a positive experience in balancing my future career at Vogtle with a family.
(3) Give me the opportunity to work with and serve people directly.
(4) Provide a skill that I could utilize anywhere in the world for humanitarian and/or mission work.
(5) Spark my passions in a way that would allow me to give myself fully to work and not regret the use of that time for the results produced.
I think this is the first time I have written all those goals out together, but they are really what have driven my desires and prayers through this process. I began during that year (2003) to determine what opportunities were out there in the world that might meet all the goals. I had taken the GRE, as I was considering graduate school in some capacity, so I began to consider entirely new careers in addition to other options within the Chemical Engineering field. With the urging of my best friend (thank you, Julie) I started looking at some programs at Georgia Tech in the rehabilitation engineering realm. While none of those programs particularly struck me as the right one, they did lead me directly to the GT graduate program for Prosthetics and Orthotics. I first came across this option in December of 2003, and the last 2 ½ years have been ultimately leading to today, my first day of unemployment.
While I feel that this move, this career change, is absolutely the right thing for me, I have to believe that staying at Vogtle could just as easily have been the right thing. I prayed that if God desired me to stay here that I would develop a greater passion for Vogtle in order to be willing to sacrifice some of the desires listed above. I would have been happy to stay. But, alas, the doors have opened for me to go, and so I am leaving. I am thankful that the last several weeks have been more confirming for me than confusing. One amazing blessing has been the response of my co-workers, who almost unanimously have been supportive and encouraging as I said my goodbyes. Many of their comments have been extremely touching and have given me a sense that my leaving has been a greater testimony in that place than my time there has been. I regret only that as I left I began to see a few potential relationships, which I did not see before, in which I could have mentored those people in work and life. At this point, I have to trust that I will only have more opportunity for such relationships in my future career.
To wrap up this blog which is about to exceed the blog word limit (I know there is no such thing), I would like to thank God for the fact that I will never again be caught sporting this gear, in this pose, at this place, ever again:
(1) Require less of a commute. I spent roughly 8-10 hours a week in the car driving to and from Vogtle.
(2) Offer flexibility in working hours that could accommodate family life. I do not have a family of my own but would like to, and I did not foresee a positive experience in balancing my future career at Vogtle with a family.
(3) Give me the opportunity to work with and serve people directly.
(4) Provide a skill that I could utilize anywhere in the world for humanitarian and/or mission work.
(5) Spark my passions in a way that would allow me to give myself fully to work and not regret the use of that time for the results produced.
I think this is the first time I have written all those goals out together, but they are really what have driven my desires and prayers through this process. I began during that year (2003) to determine what opportunities were out there in the world that might meet all the goals. I had taken the GRE, as I was considering graduate school in some capacity, so I began to consider entirely new careers in addition to other options within the Chemical Engineering field. With the urging of my best friend (thank you, Julie) I started looking at some programs at Georgia Tech in the rehabilitation engineering realm. While none of those programs particularly struck me as the right one, they did lead me directly to the GT graduate program for Prosthetics and Orthotics. I first came across this option in December of 2003, and the last 2 ½ years have been ultimately leading to today, my first day of unemployment.
While I feel that this move, this career change, is absolutely the right thing for me, I have to believe that staying at Vogtle could just as easily have been the right thing. I prayed that if God desired me to stay here that I would develop a greater passion for Vogtle in order to be willing to sacrifice some of the desires listed above. I would have been happy to stay. But, alas, the doors have opened for me to go, and so I am leaving. I am thankful that the last several weeks have been more confirming for me than confusing. One amazing blessing has been the response of my co-workers, who almost unanimously have been supportive and encouraging as I said my goodbyes. Many of their comments have been extremely touching and have given me a sense that my leaving has been a greater testimony in that place than my time there has been. I regret only that as I left I began to see a few potential relationships, which I did not see before, in which I could have mentored those people in work and life. At this point, I have to trust that I will only have more opportunity for such relationships in my future career.
To wrap up this blog which is about to exceed the blog word limit (I know there is no such thing), I would like to thank God for the fact that I will never again be caught sporting this gear, in this pose, at this place, ever again:
Me as a B.E. (Baby Engineer) - Fall 2000
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Exciting Start to the Day
Yesterday morning, I was rudely awakened at approximately 4am by dogs barking. I looked at the clock, rolled my eyes, and tried to go back to sleep for the 30 remaining minutes of my night. But the barking got worse, much worse, and it wasn't letting up at all. It sounded kind like a dog in another yard, but as the minutes went by I began to realize that this may in fact be my dog. Well, sure enough, it was the beloved Kelsey. She was barking as though our lives were in danger and looking very worrisomely behind a bush at the back fence (along the ditch). I very cautiously stepped out into the back yard to see what was on the other side of the fence bothering her. I couldn't see anything, but it was obvious by her insanity that 
something was there. She wouldn't even come inside when I called. So I went back in and grabbed a flashlight. I walked about halfway across the yard an shined it at the bush, and there it was, a wicked little scared-out-of-its-mind opossum. It's eyes were glaring out at me and it was making some sort of hissing sound at Kelsey. I finally got Kelsey inside, and I guess the opossum wisely found a way back out of the yard. I'm certain that particular rodent will not return. It looked about like the photo here, except under a bush instead of under a table. Gross!
something was there. She wouldn't even come inside when I called. So I went back in and grabbed a flashlight. I walked about halfway across the yard an shined it at the bush, and there it was, a wicked little scared-out-of-its-mind opossum. It's eyes were glaring out at me and it was making some sort of hissing sound at Kelsey. I finally got Kelsey inside, and I guess the opossum wisely found a way back out of the yard. I'm certain that particular rodent will not return. It looked about like the photo here, except under a bush instead of under a table. Gross!
Monday, April 10, 2006
The Exodus
Yesterday was the annual mass exodus from Augusta. This exodus has no biblical connotation whatsoever, unless you count the fact that many people worship the ground at the Augusta National. No, this exodus is the swift and powerful exit at the end of the Masters tournament. Never has there been a more audible sigh of relief from an entire community as our seams are relaxed and we can once again resume normal life. The fans, the rental cars, the limosines, the RVs, the news trucks, the white vans, the golf advertisements, the traffic, the golfers themselves.... they have all left. Here we are the next day, just plain old Augusta again. All the fanfare and excitement is gone, but we are happy. Next year the excitement will build again, "they" will come again, and another exodus will occur, and so on. I lived in Augusta for a few years before I really saw the full force of all the Masters hoopla. Then I moved into this neighborhood (right across the street from the Augusta National), and I finally realized just how much happens during the famous Masters week. I also experienced for the first time the longing for it to go away. I wanted the normal streets back, restuarants without the wait, life as we know it here, boring as it sometimes is. So that year I decided to sit out on Washington Road, right outside the gate, and wave goodbye to the fans as the exodus took place. My friend Sarah Mizelle joined me, and we had a blast. It was so much fun that we decided to make it an annual affair, but unfortunately one thing or another has prevented it for the last two years. This year, however, the tradition continued. Sarah, Jennifer, and I can be seen below wishing all the fans well. Our signs read, "Have a Safe Trip Home", "See Ya Next Year", and "Y'all Come Back!" As happy as we are to see the fans leave, we have tried to be as nice as possible to them. It's funny because most people don't really know what to think of us. Some try to walk by without making eye contact. Others laugh. Others stop and chat. For the most part, they are just surprised that we are actually sitting there on the side of the road and not trying to sell them anything. And we're just glad they are on their way out.
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
Uncreated Joys
I never cease to be amazed at the ability of Dr. Ortlund (Dr. Raymond C. Ortlund, Jr. to be exact) can convey truth in a profound way. Below is an excerpt from the sermon he preached last Sunday at his church in Nashville.
The goodness of God, better than every other desire, is the truth being advertised through the church. If God were to deed over to you his whole creation as your personal possession and you became unimaginably rich forever, with all the world at your command, your wealth would be real because everything God makes has worth. But you would also go on forever wondering why you felt so empty and frustrated and angry. God created us for uncreated joys. He created us for himself. The Bible says about a wealthy man, “Jesus looked on him and loved him” (Mark 10:21). His love is better than wealth, and that is the most underrated truth in America today. Moses prayed, “Show me your glory.” God answered, “I will make all my goodness pass before you” (Exodus 33:18-19). The Bible says, “Oh, how abundant is your goodness” (Psalm 31:19). “Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good” (Psalm 106:1; 107:1). “Oh taste and see that the Lord is good” (Psalm 34:8). “He gives good things to those who ask him” (Matthew 7:11). His will is good (Romans 12:2). In all things he works for the good of those who love him (Romans 8:28). “Surely goodness and mercy shall pursue me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever” (Psalm 23:6).
What really caught my attention the most was the statement that "God created us for uncreated joys." I don't think I realize how easily I am swayed to equate joy with something - anything - in this world. What a great reminder that while things in this world can and do bring joy, our ultimate joy can only be found in God himself. Even in some of the verses that Ortlund uses, it is my tendency to equate "good" with something I can see or touch, something created. If only I could remember every day that I am created for uncreated joys, life would be more simple.
The goodness of God, better than every other desire, is the truth being advertised through the church. If God were to deed over to you his whole creation as your personal possession and you became unimaginably rich forever, with all the world at your command, your wealth would be real because everything God makes has worth. But you would also go on forever wondering why you felt so empty and frustrated and angry. God created us for uncreated joys. He created us for himself. The Bible says about a wealthy man, “Jesus looked on him and loved him” (Mark 10:21). His love is better than wealth, and that is the most underrated truth in America today. Moses prayed, “Show me your glory.” God answered, “I will make all my goodness pass before you” (Exodus 33:18-19). The Bible says, “Oh, how abundant is your goodness” (Psalm 31:19). “Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good” (Psalm 106:1; 107:1). “Oh taste and see that the Lord is good” (Psalm 34:8). “He gives good things to those who ask him” (Matthew 7:11). His will is good (Romans 12:2). In all things he works for the good of those who love him (Romans 8:28). “Surely goodness and mercy shall pursue me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever” (Psalm 23:6).
What really caught my attention the most was the statement that "God created us for uncreated joys." I don't think I realize how easily I am swayed to equate joy with something - anything - in this world. What a great reminder that while things in this world can and do bring joy, our ultimate joy can only be found in God himself. Even in some of the verses that Ortlund uses, it is my tendency to equate "good" with something I can see or touch, something created. If only I could remember every day that I am created for uncreated joys, life would be more simple.
Sunday, April 02, 2006
Cooper River Memorial Workout
First of all, I would like to congratulate all my friends who took on the Cooper River Bridge Run yesterday and conquered it once again. Julie especially, after recovering from a vicious bout with mono a few months ago, completed without walking! Great job Jules!
Today, in loving memory of the race I did not run yesterday, I took to the streets to push myself in a similar way. Instead of running 6.2 miles, though, I threw in a kink to start early in preparing for the Mistletoe Triathlon, which I hope to race in June. I started by pulling my bike out of the shed, dusting it off, pumping up the tires, and locating all my gear, which has been stashed away for almost 2 years. I rode downtown, around, and back, about 16 miles. It wasn't an intense ride by any means, but not a bad workout at all. I then took about a 30 minute break, stretched, changed shoes, and set out for a 3.1 mile run. I have to say, I was struggling big time, probably in part due to the pre-run bikeride and in part due to the fact that the temp is about 80-85 today. Nonetheless, I finished with a few short walks in 30min45sec. (That included a short stop to give someone directions also.) All in all, I was happy with the workout and feel that I have now somewhat redeemed the lost challenge of the Cooper yesterday.
Oh, and I was also breaking in new running shoes. I had been waiting until after the race buy new shoes and start breaking them in, though I desperately needed some, so I bought some yesterday. So far, two thumbs up. As a woman, I have to admit that sadly it is more fun for me to have new running shoes than new sandals or boots or any other footwear. My family used to call me "Happy Feet" for a few weeks after I got new running shoes, because I walked as though on the tops of clouds. So if you see me sporting my new footwear, you may note the happy spring in my step... I just can't help it.
Today, in loving memory of the race I did not run yesterday, I took to the streets to push myself in a similar way. Instead of running 6.2 miles, though, I threw in a kink to start early in preparing for the Mistletoe Triathlon, which I hope to race in June. I started by pulling my bike out of the shed, dusting it off, pumping up the tires, and locating all my gear, which has been stashed away for almost 2 years. I rode downtown, around, and back, about 16 miles. It wasn't an intense ride by any means, but not a bad workout at all. I then took about a 30 minute break, stretched, changed shoes, and set out for a 3.1 mile run. I have to say, I was struggling big time, probably in part due to the pre-run bikeride and in part due to the fact that the temp is about 80-85 today. Nonetheless, I finished with a few short walks in 30min45sec. (That included a short stop to give someone directions also.) All in all, I was happy with the workout and feel that I have now somewhat redeemed the lost challenge of the Cooper yesterday.
Oh, and I was also breaking in new running shoes. I had been waiting until after the race buy new shoes and start breaking them in, though I desperately needed some, so I bought some yesterday. So far, two thumbs up. As a woman, I have to admit that sadly it is more fun for me to have new running shoes than new sandals or boots or any other footwear. My family used to call me "Happy Feet" for a few weeks after I got new running shoes, because I walked as though on the tops of clouds. So if you see me sporting my new footwear, you may note the happy spring in my step... I just can't help it.
Friday, March 31, 2006
Unbelievable
I left work this morning at about 6:15 fully elated at the idea that I would not return until Monday morning. On the way home, I pleasanty planned out my day and how I would manage to sleep a little but still be able to sleep tonight in preps for the big race tomorrow morning in Charleston. All these hopes and plans were dashed at 7:30 when I begrudgingly answered the phone to find my boss on the other end, "We're gonna need you to work tonight." He didn't even say it with remorse. Warning to all other employees at the plant tonight: I will not be in a good mood!
Thursday, March 30, 2006
What are they thinking?
These are actual opening words to house listings in my area. No phrases have been changed to protect anyone. Italic comments are obviously mine. I have been checking the realty site to see what comments will be chosen for my house. If any of these are used, I will call my realtor and request a re-do.
“Looking for Investors!!”
Looking for suckers!
“Enjoy life in the country…”
This place is secluded from all familiar life forms.
“Move in today!”
We are desperate.
“Owner is doing some painting…”
???
“Best price in neighborhood. Sold "AS IS" "AS SEEN" condition”
Worst house in neighborhood, and we aren’t going to fix anything up for you.
“Looking for Investors!!”
Looking for suckers!
“Enjoy life in the country…”
This place is secluded from all familiar life forms.
“Move in today!”
We are desperate.
“Owner is doing some painting…”
???
“Best price in neighborhood. Sold "AS IS" "AS SEEN" condition”
Worst house in neighborhood, and we aren’t going to fix anything up for you.
My Sentiments Exactly
This quote communicates something I have felt and yet struggled to put into words for a long time:
“I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something. And because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do the something that I can do.”
-Edward Everett Hale, The Man Without a Country
I would also add that I am often disheartened at just how much there is to do compared with how little I can do and, furthermore, how much less I actually do. In the spirit of simple faith, I have desired lately to fight my urge to read every book worth reading, see every movie worth seeing, go every place worth going, and so on. I think without intentionally doing so, I place a lot of value in gathering up little accomplishments like this, checking little things off my list, and adding one more token to my list of been there and done that. The question that has inspired me to fight the urge to do it all is this: If I read, see, and visit so much, what will I have actually DONE with my life?
“I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something. And because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do the something that I can do.”
-Edward Everett Hale, The Man Without a Country
I would also add that I am often disheartened at just how much there is to do compared with how little I can do and, furthermore, how much less I actually do. In the spirit of simple faith, I have desired lately to fight my urge to read every book worth reading, see every movie worth seeing, go every place worth going, and so on. I think without intentionally doing so, I place a lot of value in gathering up little accomplishments like this, checking little things off my list, and adding one more token to my list of been there and done that. The question that has inspired me to fight the urge to do it all is this: If I read, see, and visit so much, what will I have actually DONE with my life?
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
Vogtle Sunrise and Masters is Coming
Vogtle SunriseWow! This is what I was fortunate enough to not only see but capture this morning as I left the parking lot at work. I guess that was worth the previous 12 hours spent in the darkness of the night inside plant. That little glimmer of light is actually just a parking lot light, but it adds a nice effect to the budding sunrise in the background.
And now for a few photos I took yesterday on my way home from work. Note that these are just a few things that I happened to notice on my way home. I did not go out of my way, and in a few did not even stop the car. This is how prevalent all around us the onset of the Masters is.
1. It may be hard to see around my car frame, but there is a little trailer in that open lot, and there is yellow rope strung up all around as well. This particular lot, which is really just a field in front of an apartment complex, becomes one of the primo parking locations each day during the Masters tournament. 
2. This structure is somewhat of a mystery, but it is erected without fail every year the week before the Masters. It seems to be some sort of contraption for transmitting video images, but you might note the lack of television or radio insignia. I have a strong inclination that this particular device is used for feeding live video of the tournament to alien life forms.
3. The structure pictured here (where last week there was only a concrete slab) will soon be transformed into a temporary party headquarters. There will be very flashy and expensive SUVs out front every day and night, caterers will scurry to and fro, and only those with the right VIP credentials will be allowed to enter and enjoy the insta-building exculsive events.
4. And finally, it would not be Masters week in my neighborhood without mass advertisement to any tourist who will please fork over handfuls of cash to stay in our literally humble abodes. I have rented mine two separate years, but alas, this year I have conflicts (see photo #5).
5. Let the games begin!
We Have a Winner
Winner: Clever Article Title of the Week (if there were such an award)
"Who gives a @#$% about profanity?"
from CNN.com
"Who gives a @#$% about profanity?"
from CNN.com
Monday, March 27, 2006
Tunes, Training, Lawnmower, Etc.
I am stealing this list method from my friend Amy for tonight. Several random unrelated things to report:
1. Music
Today I have had several interesting encounters with music. Fist, early in the wee hours this morning, I was watching the movie The Weather Man (which is a pretty useless movie) and I noticed much to my delight that some of the background music sounded an awful lot like the Beastie Boys. I am a fairly big fan of the Beasties, so I was pretty certain of what my ears were hearing, the unique instrumental hip-hop sound of the Beasties jamming away. At the end of the movie, my suspicions were confirmed in the credits! I think it sounded like some of their tracks from either the "Hello Nasty" album or maybe "Ill Communication". Way to go Beastie Boys for the random musical appearance in this unfortunately stupid movie!
While I was running this afternoon (see report below) I was just at the beginning of mile 3 when a particular song on my MP3 player really kept me going. I seriously may have stopped otherwise due to some slight stomach cramping. The song was from the Big Daddy soundtrack, entitled "Ooh La La". I can't remember the artist, but it's a great song if you ever need something to keep you going OR get you going.
And finally, I must report that I heard the Fresh Prince's "Summertime" TWICE today. That's right, two times the inspriration of summer fun graced my tympanic membranes and my heart. I love summer. The weather was quite nice this afternoon, however, it has been entirely too cold lately. I think hearing "Summertime" twice today was a sign from the Lord that summer will be here very soon. I can't wait. I hate the cold.
2. Training
Thankfully the injuries have finally been resolved, and I had a record-breaking run today. If you saw my extensive post one day a few weeks back about running my 5-mile route in 45min37sec, you will appreciate that today I ran it in 45min07sec!!! I couldn't believe it. I was expecting that I may not even make it the full 5 miles, due to the recent training setbacks and the fact that I have been on nightshift so I'm all out of whack. But thanks to "Ooh La La" and other songs of inspiration, I was able to finish in record time!
3. Lawnmower
It strikes again. I finally got this beast started up after the long winter, and now it won't start again. It seems that the motor or the blade (or both) is bound. I spent some time yesterday and today taking the thing apart far enough to realize that the rope is fine but the rotor is locked for some reason. So now I need some advice on how to proceed. If the advice includes paying someone else to look at it, please do not offer your opinion.
4. Real Estate
Tomorrow I will be meeting with my realtor to officially finish up details for putting my house on the market. A sign should be in the yard before week's end!
5. Work/Race
I'm back at work tonight and planning to work through Thursday night. If all goes well, I will leave out of here Friday morning and have Friday and Saturday nights off. I'm not sure how well I will fare in the race with this schedule leading into it, but being there is the only real thing I am worried about at this point. I would rather be there and at least get to try to run, whatever weird half-awake state I am in, than have to miss it entirely.
1. Music
Today I have had several interesting encounters with music. Fist, early in the wee hours this morning, I was watching the movie The Weather Man (which is a pretty useless movie) and I noticed much to my delight that some of the background music sounded an awful lot like the Beastie Boys. I am a fairly big fan of the Beasties, so I was pretty certain of what my ears were hearing, the unique instrumental hip-hop sound of the Beasties jamming away. At the end of the movie, my suspicions were confirmed in the credits! I think it sounded like some of their tracks from either the "Hello Nasty" album or maybe "Ill Communication". Way to go Beastie Boys for the random musical appearance in this unfortunately stupid movie!
While I was running this afternoon (see report below) I was just at the beginning of mile 3 when a particular song on my MP3 player really kept me going. I seriously may have stopped otherwise due to some slight stomach cramping. The song was from the Big Daddy soundtrack, entitled "Ooh La La". I can't remember the artist, but it's a great song if you ever need something to keep you going OR get you going.
And finally, I must report that I heard the Fresh Prince's "Summertime" TWICE today. That's right, two times the inspriration of summer fun graced my tympanic membranes and my heart. I love summer. The weather was quite nice this afternoon, however, it has been entirely too cold lately. I think hearing "Summertime" twice today was a sign from the Lord that summer will be here very soon. I can't wait. I hate the cold.
2. Training
Thankfully the injuries have finally been resolved, and I had a record-breaking run today. If you saw my extensive post one day a few weeks back about running my 5-mile route in 45min37sec, you will appreciate that today I ran it in 45min07sec!!! I couldn't believe it. I was expecting that I may not even make it the full 5 miles, due to the recent training setbacks and the fact that I have been on nightshift so I'm all out of whack. But thanks to "Ooh La La" and other songs of inspiration, I was able to finish in record time!
3. Lawnmower
It strikes again. I finally got this beast started up after the long winter, and now it won't start again. It seems that the motor or the blade (or both) is bound. I spent some time yesterday and today taking the thing apart far enough to realize that the rope is fine but the rotor is locked for some reason. So now I need some advice on how to proceed. If the advice includes paying someone else to look at it, please do not offer your opinion.
4. Real Estate
Tomorrow I will be meeting with my realtor to officially finish up details for putting my house on the market. A sign should be in the yard before week's end!
5. Work/Race
I'm back at work tonight and planning to work through Thursday night. If all goes well, I will leave out of here Friday morning and have Friday and Saturday nights off. I'm not sure how well I will fare in the race with this schedule leading into it, but being there is the only real thing I am worried about at this point. I would rather be there and at least get to try to run, whatever weird half-awake state I am in, than have to miss it entirely.
Sunday, March 26, 2006
Crawfish Time!
Baton Rouge - May 2002Ahhh, I wish I could say the smell is in the air, but unfortunately here in Augusta the smell is strictly pollen right now. However, in a few short weeks, the Louisiana swamp delicacy (is that an oxymoron?) will once again make an appearance in Augusta. Announcing, to all my blog readers here in town, you are cordially invited to:
The 4th Annual Louisiana Crawfish Boil
Saturday, April 22
4pm until
$10 eat and drink
$3 keg only
Laissez les Bon Temps Roullez!!!
Thursday, March 23, 2006
It's a Yes!
That's right... not a boy, or a girl, a yes! I received the news yesterday afternoon from Georgia Tech that they will in fact let me into the next class for the prosthetics and orthotics masters program. I'm still a little shell-shocked, not having been as confident as everyone else seemed to be that this would actually happen. I don't know why, I just had this underlying feeling that God was not going to open the door. But alas, it is open! So here I am with this newly born "yes", the ok to move forward, and I am not so sure what to think. I trust that it will come naturally with each consecutive step, but I'm also scared that I will somehow screw up, somehow thwart this opportunity for which I have prayed for over two years now. Nonetheless, I am about to jump into it with both feet forward. Thus begins a new (and no doubt exciting) adventure in this life. I pray that it will be one which is glorifying to God each step of the way.
Top photo from: http://www.opcareers.org/op_programs/
Monday, March 20, 2006
Countdown Update
Quarters: 29
Miles: 2,360
This, of course, assumes a positive outcome this week from Georgia Tech. Today is the big day that the program admissions committee will be meeting to make decisions.
In other news, I am still experiencing difficulties from the muscle soreness of last week. The pulled left hamstring is now reverberating to my knee as well as the groin muscle area. After my tennis match yesterday, the left gluteus has decided to join in the fun. If things continue to spread at this rate, by race day I will probably be having a stroke due to complications in the left cerebral hemisphere.
Thursday, March 16, 2006
Great with Child
No, I'm not pregnant. Anyone in their right mind would know this, but just in case I threw you off, trust me I am not. Not physically at least. I am, however, pregnant with an idea, a dream, a plan, and a desire. And as the last week ticks away before I will know the fate of this creature, I am feeling very great with child. I am kind of stealing from Romans 8 here, but it's a very different scenario than all of creation experiencing the pains of childbirth. Despite this difference, the emotions remain the same. I have been thinking back over the last several years and how this child has been formed within my mind and my heart. I have come to God with the desires of my heart and begged Him for resolution, and this is the path that He has revealed before me. I prayed very much as Moses did in Exodus that God would not let me go from this place if He did not go before me to prepare the way. Over the last few years, God has been preparing this way, and I have been ever-so-cautiously following a dimly lit path towards a career change. The great news (as I realize that this entire journey can be obliterated by a committee of people on Monday) is that the path is not about a career change. It is not about moving from Augusta to Atlanta. It is not about whether I am an engineer or a baker or a candlestick maker. The great news is that the path is about knowing God more and about becoming more like Him, about living a life (wherever you are and whatever you do) that will glorify Him. I am great with child as I anticipate the next step on this path that I have been traversing. I know that there is a fork in the road, but I do not know which way it will lead me. I know that as this child has developed over the last few years, everything has seemed positive. Setbacks arose, but those have been overcome. Everything seems healthy and normal now as I wait for the delivery of the child. God may choose to do what He wishes at this point. All could go as expected, or the path could crumble before me. I wish I could say that I didn't care either way, but I do care. I have invested in this child. I have labored for it with my mind, with my body, with my finances, with my time, and with my heart. I have prepared myself for everything to come to fruition. If it all slips through my fingers, I will be crushed in many ways, yet I will have no choice but to remain confident in one thing. I have prayed for God's will (and many others have prayed for it alongside me), so I have no choice but to believe that whatever I find out next week will in fact be His will. Will that mean that my idea, my dream, my plan, and my desire could all be wasted? I have to believe not. God is bigger than where I am and what I do. His fulfillment of my desires is a promise, but I can't know how He will do it. Just as God showed Abraham how He could fulfill his promise to bless the nations through him, I trust that God can do the same in my life. I literally do not see another viable option right now to move towards what I believe God is calling me to, but I am only human! On the flip side, if this path that I feel confident in continues to unfold, it will not be in itself the ultimate destination. It will simply be a place to go and a thing to do as I continue on the same path of faith that I am on right here and now. Pray with me that I will believe these truths as I open the letter next week and experience the culmination of my pains of childbirth.
Monday, March 13, 2006
How am I Counting the Days?
Well, I am now down to a count of 35 workdays remaining (if I get into Tech).
So, how - you might ask - am I counting down the days?
So, how - you might ask - am I counting down the days?
(1) Quarters. I have stashed in my desk exactly enough quarters for one cup of coffee per day (I pay 25 cents a cup to mooch off another department). So after today, I have 34 quarters left in the stash. Actually, I only have 32 because I will not be here at the plant tomorrow or the next day, but you get the idea. Today I was asked if I wanted to join the coffee club for $10 and not have to pay a quarter a cup. I did the quick math and declined.
(2) Miles. If I include the drive home today, I should have 2,760 more miles of driving between my house and the plant. Due to previously mentioned trip that will prevent my driving here for the next two days, that brings it down to 2,600 miles. Over the years, I have come to utilize the 160 miles per day for praying, making cell phone calls, and thinking up solutions to such quagmires as world peace. Despite the usefulness of this time, I will NOT miss it!
Sunday, March 12, 2006
Beautiful Weather!
Wow! The weather has been so ridiculously nice this weekend, I don't know where to begin in describing my joy. I will start by explaining that the photo above is not new. I took it in Toronto in May 2004 when I was there for a work conference. As you can see I got a lot of work done. I realized the other day that the "Photo of the Week" has basically disappeared, so I want to start at least posting a few here and there. Weekly may not happen. Anyway, the weather this weekend reminded me of this photo.
Yesterday started out kind of cloudy. I went on a planned 5-mile run and was not too optimistic about the rest of the day. I had planned to do yardwork which really needed to get done, but I was halfway hoping for rain because I don't like yardwork. So, it turned out to be a gorgeous day. I was able to rake out the bed in my front yard and replace the muck and mire with fresh pine straw. Somewhere in the middle of this job, I took a break, took my lawnmower apart to remove the gas tank and empty it, and refilled the tank with fresh gas. I read online that this was a fix for lawnmowers that had been sitting idle and would not start. Well, it still wouldn't start. I finished up with the pine straw (minus the beds under the bushes), and I was REALLY tired and ready to quit. Before getting in the shower, I thought I should put the lawnmower up, and before putting it up I decided to give it one last crank. Well wouldn't you know that blasted thing finally decided to start. So I went ahead and mowed the front yard, after which I was beyond really tired (not to mention sore). So I took a really quick cold shower and then started a very hot bubble bath. I enjoyed this very hot bubble bath immensely with the additional help of a very cold beer and some delightful music. Ahhh, the simple but refreshing rewards for hard work. The rest of the day was fairly boring, and I was so tired I didn't do much except for a few hours of studying. I woke up this morning to muscle soreness from the back of my neck down to the back of my knees. I rotated the heating pad to four different locations before I was ready to crawl out of bed. Thankfully, though, this was all muscle soreness and does not feel like any inflammation due to my neck problems.
Today I went to Waffle House for breakfast, then to early service at church and sunday school. I have a lot to share about that, but I will save it for another day - I'm still thinking through some of the verses that hit me this morning. I spent the afternoon outside in my backyard spending time looking over and praying through some of the aforementioned verses. I also threw in a little studying and a little light napping for good measure. All of this was outside so that I could enjoy the ridiculous nice weather. I even pulled out my beach lounge chair for some of the napping and reading. It was great.
I see that the weather report predicts cold weather starting again this week.
:-(
Friday, March 10, 2006
"Strong" Passwords
Holy freak of nature! These people are getting out of control! I found the following message this morning from our company IT department:
"Beginning April 5, strong passwords will be required by the network. If your existing password doesn’t expire until April 20, for example, you can continue to use that password until a new password is required.
Users should remember that strong passwords:
-Must be between six and eight characters long;
-Must contain a combination of uppercase letters, lowercase letters and numbers;
-Must begin with an alphabetic character;
-Cannot contain a username;
-Cannot mimic a user’s past 13 passwords; and
-Must be changed every 45 days. You will automatically be prompted for this."
I know this idea had to come from some conglomerate of meetings where people sat around and actually discussed the pros and cons of enforcing uppercase/lowercase requirements in addition to alpha-numeric requirements. If any member of a non-IT department had been present, they would have loudly protested this horrific act of torture. Don't these people have any mercy??!?!?!
"Beginning April 5, strong passwords will be required by the network. If your existing password doesn’t expire until April 20, for example, you can continue to use that password until a new password is required.
Users should remember that strong passwords:
-Must be between six and eight characters long;
-Must contain a combination of uppercase letters, lowercase letters and numbers;
-Must begin with an alphabetic character;
-Cannot contain a username;
-Cannot mimic a user’s past 13 passwords; and
-Must be changed every 45 days. You will automatically be prompted for this."
I know this idea had to come from some conglomerate of meetings where people sat around and actually discussed the pros and cons of enforcing uppercase/lowercase requirements in addition to alpha-numeric requirements. If any member of a non-IT department had been present, they would have loudly protested this horrific act of torture. Don't these people have any mercy??!?!?!
Friday Already?
Wow, the week is almost over again. I'll try to keep this synopsis short though the week has been a full one...
Mom and Ben were here Saturday to Monday, and we had a full two days of chasing my favorite two-year old and enjoying the nice weather. Mom was kind of sick and didn't sleep too well, but she was a trooper anyway and put together a nice birthday party for me Sunday night. About 10 of my friends came over and we had dinner and cake. It's been a while since I've had a party with cake, even though Ben thought it was his cake, so it was fun.
Tuesday night has been blogged already.
My birthday was Wednesday, and it started off pretty well with a beautiful sunrise on the way to work. I may not have gotten any flowers from a man, but God brought me pink and purple clouds :-) For the most part, the rest of the day was pretty run-of-the-mill, except for all the nice phone calls and e-mails that I received. Then, that night at Bible study Erin surprised me with a cookie cake (thanks Erin!) and Julie surprised me at my house by being there when I got home to personally deliver her wonderful gifts (thanks Julie!).
Yesterday was run day for Julie and I, and we ran for about 50 minutes or so, probably about 4 miles or a little more. While we were running on the canal, we dodged a train (which was going VERY slow, but it still gave me a rush) and we saw a few people we knew out exercising as well. After the run, we started our little book study of The Journey of Desire, which I am very excited about.
I have a few more things to say, but I also have to do something about this wet hair in the next 15 minutes. More to come this weekend...
Mom and Ben were here Saturday to Monday, and we had a full two days of chasing my favorite two-year old and enjoying the nice weather. Mom was kind of sick and didn't sleep too well, but she was a trooper anyway and put together a nice birthday party for me Sunday night. About 10 of my friends came over and we had dinner and cake. It's been a while since I've had a party with cake, even though Ben thought it was his cake, so it was fun.
Tuesday night has been blogged already.
My birthday was Wednesday, and it started off pretty well with a beautiful sunrise on the way to work. I may not have gotten any flowers from a man, but God brought me pink and purple clouds :-) For the most part, the rest of the day was pretty run-of-the-mill, except for all the nice phone calls and e-mails that I received. Then, that night at Bible study Erin surprised me with a cookie cake (thanks Erin!) and Julie surprised me at my house by being there when I got home to personally deliver her wonderful gifts (thanks Julie!).
Yesterday was run day for Julie and I, and we ran for about 50 minutes or so, probably about 4 miles or a little more. While we were running on the canal, we dodged a train (which was going VERY slow, but it still gave me a rush) and we saw a few people we knew out exercising as well. After the run, we started our little book study of The Journey of Desire, which I am very excited about.
I have a few more things to say, but I also have to do something about this wet hair in the next 15 minutes. More to come this weekend...
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
Missing the Mark
I had the best intentions as I drove home from work today... I was going to run 6.3 miles (3 times around Lake Olmstead) and then go to my favorite little coffee shop to study the material from last night's lecture AND look over tomorrow night's Bible study material. I was only about about two-thirds successful on all counts. The run was prematurely ended due to slight pains in my left hip and right knee - nothing to be alarmed about, but I didn't NEED to run 6.3 miles and decided to settle for 4.2. Then at the coffee shop I was diligently working on my studies when a co-worker walked in. Thankfully this is one of the few co-workers who already knows I am trying to leave, so he wasn't alarmed at the Anatomy/Physiology book. BUT he proceeded to chit-chat for about 15-20 minutes right then and ANOTHER 20 minutes before he left. I think the time he sat there and studied (ie. fooled around on the internet) was less than the total time he wasted talking to me. Due to these interruptions, I had to cut my studying down and only finished a little more than half the schoolwork. I finished the rest of the Bible study but only because I was almost done.
To add to the futility of the evening, I had the bright idea of saving some money on my coffee purchase, which is normally a small cafe au lait for $2.62 with tax ($2.45 without tax). I noticed on the menu a small machiatto for $2.00 and thought that might be a better deal. Was I ever mistaken! The cafe au lait comes in a "normal" sized coffee mug. The machiatto came in a miniature espresso cup, which - despite it's cuteness - could not have been more than about 2 ounces of drink! And to make matters worse, I tried to microwave the last half ounce (which got cold when previously mentioned co-worker walked in) and it bubbled over. So I probably only got to drink about two-thirds of my 2-ounce, $2.00 machiatto. I think I better go to bed before attempting anything else tonight. I will pat myself on the back as I fall asleep realizing that I did manage to write a whole blog entry, however useless it may be.
To add to the futility of the evening, I had the bright idea of saving some money on my coffee purchase, which is normally a small cafe au lait for $2.62 with tax ($2.45 without tax). I noticed on the menu a small machiatto for $2.00 and thought that might be a better deal. Was I ever mistaken! The cafe au lait comes in a "normal" sized coffee mug. The machiatto came in a miniature espresso cup, which - despite it's cuteness - could not have been more than about 2 ounces of drink! And to make matters worse, I tried to microwave the last half ounce (which got cold when previously mentioned co-worker walked in) and it bubbled over. So I probably only got to drink about two-thirds of my 2-ounce, $2.00 machiatto. I think I better go to bed before attempting anything else tonight. I will pat myself on the back as I fall asleep realizing that I did manage to write a whole blog entry, however useless it may be.
Monday, March 06, 2006
School Update
Ok, so after several "encouragements" to call and check on things at Georgia Tech, I finally called today to get the scoop. I had originally been told they would begin reviewing applications in February, so I expected either acceptance or rejection by now (my application has been collecting dust since October 28). As it turns out, the committee who reviews applications is slack, and they have been putting it off. The very nice administrative assistant assured me that they have everything needed for my file and that the applications were now scheduled to be reviewed Monday, March 20. I sort of prodded, reminding her that as the summer gets closer I need to know what to plan for with living situation, etc. She assured me that the letters would be mailed out either on March 20 in the afternoon or the next day. So beginning on March 21 I will again start checking the mail with anticipation. Until then, we can all be assured there will be no letter :-(
Tuesday, February 28, 2006
Run, Forrest, Run!
I don't really know what happened today, but lets just say the Lord has blessed my legs... After years of trying to break the perpetual 10 minute mile, I broke it by a longshot today. I hope this was not just a fluke, but in all likelihood it was. The stars must be aligned just right or something. It was so beautiful outside today, I thought about running all day. I pictured myself running as I was walking around the plant in slacks and loafers. So, despite a long and busy day at work and staying late and having to study for a test tomorrow night, I changed and hit the streets as soon as I got home. I decided to run my 5-mile out and back route, and I seriously wasn't sure if I could run the whole thing. My goal was to get home in 50 minutes, partly because I wanted to stay under or at the 10-minute mile and partly because I was pressed for time. Well, I think I ran the first mile in about 8 minutes. Wow! I thought I better slow down so I wouldn't keel over after the second mile, but I kept a pretty decent pace. I could actually tell that I was running faster than normal, but it felt good, so I just kept running. I got to my turnaround point at 22:18. Ok, stop here and notice that this is LESS than a 9-minute mile pace (which would have been 22:30 for the 2.5 miles). So I turned around and just kept running, thinking if I could run a 10-minute pace on the way back I would be very pleased with the run. I got back to my house at 45:37! I have been looking at my watch all night just to make sure I wasn't hallucinating. I drove out the route beforehand, so I know it was 5 miles. So I know this is a long story, but please forgive me because I am beside myself over this run. With the total time, it comes out to 9 minutes, 7.39 seconds per mile. I know that isn't fast in running world standards, but compared to the unbreakable 10-minute mile this is unbelievable. I decided a few weeks ago that my goal for the upcoming Cooper River Bridge Run 10K would be to finish in under 1 hour. My past performances were 1:09:56 (2003) and 1:17:53 (2004). At today's pace, I will have no problem meeting that goal. Like I said, I hope this wasn't a fluke. Barring unforeseen injuries, I think I will make it under the goal time. And now, if you are still reading, let me remind you of what my blog said on November 8, 2005: "I was just happy to run, even just a few blocks, and get some fresh air." So just a little under 4 months ago, running a few blocks was a major milestone. I could continue to drone on about this and add in lots of spiritual encouragement, but I will leave it at that.
Continue to bless these legs, O Lord, for they art thine, not mine.
Continue to bless these legs, O Lord, for they art thine, not mine.
Monday, February 27, 2006
Deep Thought
"Work: it's as interesting as you find it to be."
This little nugget of wisdom just came to me like a vision, and I sensed that the world should be privy to such probing depth of thought.
This little nugget of wisdom just came to me like a vision, and I sensed that the world should be privy to such probing depth of thought.
Weekend
Well, my birthday got off to an early start on Friday as three of my friends treated me to a weekend away in St. Augustine at the beach. We stayed at Holly's parents' condo right on the beach, which offered a great view of the very rough waters. Tucked away inside the comforts of the condo, we enjoyed a leisurely Saturday morning complete with breakfast and time to sit around, read, and enjoy the view. This was followed by more relaxation as we experienced good old-fashioned pampering in the form of facials (yes, including cucumbers) and parrafin wax for hands and feet. I topped all this off with a hot bath and afternoon nap. We then proceeded to trouble ourselves with getting showered and dressed to go out to dinner. The girls treated me to dinner at Holly's favorite beach restaurant, Creekside Dinery,
and I thoroughly enjoyed the broiled shrimp and live entertainment. The weather was pretty nasty, so rather than run around town getting wet and cold, we went back to the condo and shared a bottle of wine and some ice cream. I think there were some margaritas mixed up after that, but I had drifted off to sleep after the long hard day of relaxing. Sunday morning we relaxed a little more for good measure, then packed up to head home. They were nice enough to humor me by eating at Waffle House on the way home, which was a great finale to the weekend. Thanks to Holly, Julie, and Emily for a great time! Also, thank you to Julia for the sweet birthday wish by video. We missed you!
And this is just the beginning... next weekend my mom and nephew are coming to visit and celebrate my birthday as well!
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
Feeling Good
I am sitting at my desk, actually working (except for this few minutes), and I must say that I just feel good this morning. I have a delightful cup of coffee and am enjoying it thoroughly. My body feels good after a good 4-mile run last night, even though it was treadmill versus road running. My heart feels good after a full evening of good conversation. Actually, I talked so much last night, my throat is on the verge of being sore this morning. I had dinner with a friend, and we talked for about two hours. Then I talked for about an hour with my best friend from high school. That hour was actually all catching up on the here and now of life, so we are a little behind on reminiscing the old days, but our 10-yr reunion is in a few months. I have no doubt we will reminisce plenty at that time. We are both a little shocked at how long it's been since high school, and even more shocked at how "grown up" some of our old friends are. One guy in particular we remember as the hot soccer player, dreamy kind of guy, and now he's married with a baby and has some really important sounding financial job in the energy sector. I guess we are grown up too. Well, I digress. I basically just wanted to share that I'm feeling good this morning and appreciating it.
Monday, February 20, 2006
Dilbert
I feel like Dilbert every time I walk down the hall, around the corner, then around another corner, only to find that the "Restroom Closed" sign has been posted due to cleaning. As soon as I round the second corner and it is in sight, I stop, sigh, utter various non-expletives, then turn around to walk back down the hall, around the corner, and back to my office. What a waste of time. I wish I had a video surveillance camera on that door so I would not have to waste my valuable time walking down the hall when I could be doing things like this, or even something useful.
Saturday, February 18, 2006
Tozer on Simplicity
In keeping with the theme of this blog (and of my life), I try to post anything I find related to living a simple faith. This is from The Pursuit of God, by A.W. Tozer:
"Every age has its own characteristics. Right now we are in an age of religious complexity. The simplicity which is in Christ is rarely found among us. In its stead are programs, methods, organizations, and a world of nervous activities which occupy time and attention but can never satisfy the longing of the heart. The shallowness of our inner experience, the hollowness of our worship, and that servile imitation of the world which marks our promotional methods all testify that we, in this day, know God only imperfectly, and the peace of God scarcely at all.
If we would find God amid all the religious externals, we must first determine to find Him, and then proceed in the way of simplicity. Now, as always, God discovers Himself to "babes" and hides Himself in thick darkness from the wise and the prudent. We must simplify our approach to Him. We must strip down to the essentials (and they will be found to be blessedly few). We must put away all effort to impress, and come with guileless candor of childhood. If we do this, without a doubt God will quickly respond.
When religion has said its last word, there is little that we need other than God Himself. The evil habit of seeking God-and effectivey prevents us from finding God in full revelation. In the and lies our great woe. If we omit the and we shall soon find God, and in Him we shall find that for which we have all our lives been secretly longing.
We need not fear that in seeking God only we may narrow our lives or restrict the motions of our expanding hearts. The opposite is true. We can well afford to make God our All, to concentrate, to sacrifice the many for the One."
The bold is mine, the italics are Tozer's. At the risk of adding anything to dilute the strength of Tozer's words, I must at least say that I agree. I love the church that I attend, the preaching, the hearts that people have for sharing their lives, the worship that we experience... but I also have to stop sometimes and realize that all the excess is exactly that - excess. No activity that we partake of is essential to the work that has been completed by Christ. I am not an opponent of the church by any means. It is essential to our unity as a body of Christ, but it is not a substitute for our pursuit of God in Christ.
"Every age has its own characteristics. Right now we are in an age of religious complexity. The simplicity which is in Christ is rarely found among us. In its stead are programs, methods, organizations, and a world of nervous activities which occupy time and attention but can never satisfy the longing of the heart. The shallowness of our inner experience, the hollowness of our worship, and that servile imitation of the world which marks our promotional methods all testify that we, in this day, know God only imperfectly, and the peace of God scarcely at all.
If we would find God amid all the religious externals, we must first determine to find Him, and then proceed in the way of simplicity. Now, as always, God discovers Himself to "babes" and hides Himself in thick darkness from the wise and the prudent. We must simplify our approach to Him. We must strip down to the essentials (and they will be found to be blessedly few). We must put away all effort to impress, and come with guileless candor of childhood. If we do this, without a doubt God will quickly respond.
When religion has said its last word, there is little that we need other than God Himself. The evil habit of seeking God-and effectivey prevents us from finding God in full revelation. In the and lies our great woe. If we omit the and we shall soon find God, and in Him we shall find that for which we have all our lives been secretly longing.
We need not fear that in seeking God only we may narrow our lives or restrict the motions of our expanding hearts. The opposite is true. We can well afford to make God our All, to concentrate, to sacrifice the many for the One."
The bold is mine, the italics are Tozer's. At the risk of adding anything to dilute the strength of Tozer's words, I must at least say that I agree. I love the church that I attend, the preaching, the hearts that people have for sharing their lives, the worship that we experience... but I also have to stop sometimes and realize that all the excess is exactly that - excess. No activity that we partake of is essential to the work that has been completed by Christ. I am not an opponent of the church by any means. It is essential to our unity as a body of Christ, but it is not a substitute for our pursuit of God in Christ.
Thursday, February 16, 2006
Too Short
That's right. It's not that I am too short (though I am kind of short), but my PANTS are too short. My sweet friend Veronica, who has made a habit of giving me all her clothes when she tires of them or they don't fit, recently gave me a new installment. One of the items is a pair of jeans from Ann Taylor Loft, size 6 petite. Normally a size 6 is way too big, so I almost didn't try these on, but I liked the look of them. So I tried them on a few days ago and was pleased to find that they fit great. They seemed to be just barely long enough, but I didn't have shoes on, so I voted them into my wardrobe (I am the only voting member of my wardrobe board, so they passed). Well, this morning I pulled the new used jeans out and put them on, walked out the door, and headed to work. One of the many bad things about leaving the house at 5:30 in the morning is that there is no time for clothing deliberations. If I make a bad decision, I must live with it all day. Well, on my walk into the plant from the parking lot, I had the upsetting realization that my light-colored socks were way too visible. That's right, I'm ready for a flood. The jeans are irrefutably cute, but they are about two inches shy of being cute AND long enough. Thankfully I will spend all day at the nuclear power plant, where on even my worst fashion days still rank in the upper echelon of fashionable dress.
Tuesday, February 14, 2006
For All the Inquiring Minds...
NO NEWS FROM GEORGIA TECH!
Mom, you will be the first to know - I promise :-)
Mom, you will be the first to know - I promise :-)
Who Said There's No Such Thing as a Free Lunch?
Believe it or not, I'm eating one right now. Our cafeteria vendors got pretty excited about Valentine's Day today (definitely more excited than I am), and they are giving out free appetizers during lunch. The lunching hour around here is officially from 11am-12:30pm. Some people take that to mean those are the cafeteria hours, while others actually spend that entire time pretending to eat lunch. Anyway, on my first trip down to the cafeteria today at 11:15 I found the line running all the way around the room, out the door, and almost out of the building. I went back at about 12:10 and had much better luck. The goodies included chicken wings, two varieties of meatballs, fried chicken bites (normal or sweet&sour), nachos and cheese or mexican dip, fruit, cheese, and a few other items. All this for free and a drink to boot. Well, I put $1 in the tip jar, but still basically free. The real test now is to see whether this free lunch will feel like such a great gift when I try to run this afternoon. I'm already doubting the outcome of that one!
Sunday, February 12, 2006
Joy
I have been realizing this weekend just how quickly things change, how the ebb and flow of life can take sharp turns without the slightest warning. My life has not changed drastically of late, but the flow of it seems to have changed much. The relaxed mundane pace with which this year started as I returned to a normal work schedule has evolved into a more stressed, stretched, and spontaneously changing pace in the past few weeks. Some circumstances have played a role in this, such as my class becoming more time consuming, Bible study getting into full swing, and work taking more time than the 8 hours a day I was spending there in January. I went for a run this afternoon along the canal, and I was thinking about this change. In addition to the change of physical pace, my heart's pace has been affected. I am being reminded of the battle that must be fought to maintain a focus on what is important before getting dragged into the "urgent" distractions all around. Just one month ago, as life's pace was slower and refreshingly normal, I really sensed a true joy in my heart. In my Bible study we are learning about the fruits of the spirit, of which one is joy, and it is defined as "delight in God for the beauty and worth of who he is." In addition to this definition of what joy IS, the study points out that it is NOT something that can be lost based on circumstances. In light of that truth, I took a little extra time today to stop and think, to look ahead at my week and anticipate the crazy long days, and to realize that my battle this week will be a real one. I know I've quoted the wise Ferris Bueller on this before, but I will state it again, "Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it." I don't want to miss it. As for some inspiration from a more established author, 1 Peter 5:8 says, "Be self controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." The devil would just love for me and you to get lost in the shuffle, be overcome by the urgent, and to hold loosely to a joy based on circumstances. May we be self-controlled and alert this week - alert to the coming onslaught of busyness or even loneliness that will attempt to suck the life and joy out of us, and self-controlled in remembering to seek and savor the true joy that is all around us.
Wednesday, February 08, 2006
Monday, February 06, 2006
Serenity Now!
12 weeks and counting until April 28.
12 weeks.
12 weeks.
12 weeks.
I feel a little better now.
12 weeks.
12 weeks.
12 weeks.
I feel a little better now.
Thursday, February 02, 2006
Rain, Rain, Go Away
This afternoon's rain seemed somehow appropriate for the day. I really don't know why, because I'm not a big fan of rain in general. I went to a safety committee walkdown at work, and I mistakenly volunteered to cover the outside areas. The pending rain had started before I made it down the stairs and outside to start the "walkdown". Nonetheless, we found a few things that could be improved upon on our outside ladders (the weekly focus). After work I was supposed to meet with a friend to run and pray (not at the same time). We stayed inside and prayed but never made it to the running. To her credit, she walked in with running clothes in hand, asking if I was up for it. I declined. I'm a fair-weather runner. While I don't mind the rain so much, the 53 degree temp made the decision for me. So maybe I'll make up for it tomorrow after work.
Speaking of running, I am training for the Cooper River Bridge Run 10K (April 1) and so far up to 3 miles for my long runs. I've been really excited about this after all the neck issues of last year. In fact, I think the running helps!
I'm finishing up a few hours of stuyding at my favorite coffee spot, and I must say this was a fine evening to sit and drink coffee and study. Dark, cold, rainy. The only improvement would be lack of studying, but I'll take what I get.
School update: On this day, the 2nd day of February, I have not yet received anything from GT. I'll keep everyone posted as the days go by.
Speaking of running, I am training for the Cooper River Bridge Run 10K (April 1) and so far up to 3 miles for my long runs. I've been really excited about this after all the neck issues of last year. In fact, I think the running helps!
I'm finishing up a few hours of stuyding at my favorite coffee spot, and I must say this was a fine evening to sit and drink coffee and study. Dark, cold, rainy. The only improvement would be lack of studying, but I'll take what I get.
School update: On this day, the 2nd day of February, I have not yet received anything from GT. I'll keep everyone posted as the days go by.
Wednesday, February 01, 2006
Reason to be Thankful
As I have been getting settled into my new office, I unpacked a few boxes this morning. Two of those boxes were left basically unopened for the last year and a half. Some items of interest that I found include:
Prevacid
Tums
Gas-X
Pepto
These were just a few of my near-daily requirements back when I had bad stomach problems several years ago. I am so thankful today as I realize that I rarely use any of these anymore, much less all of them every day.
Prevacid
Tums
Gas-X
Pepto
These were just a few of my near-daily requirements back when I had bad stomach problems several years ago. I am so thankful today as I realize that I rarely use any of these anymore, much less all of them every day.
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