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.
Saturday, May 27, 2006
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!
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