December 24, 2009
Today is a pretty awesome day! I come back to Iowa and surprise my family! They have no idea it's coming! Whew hew! Go me! They didn't think I was getting in until tomorrow! My best friend, Maddie, and her fiance come to the airport and pick me up! I fight back the tears of joy when I see them! I am so glad I'm back in Iowa! It's been a long day and all I want to do is see the ones I love most!
I get on the airport bus at 9:00 a.m. this morning. My flight doesn't leave until 2:30 p.m., but I thought I'd be smart and get there early to try and get on an earlier flight. Yeah. Bad idea. Let's just say there was no way these planes prior to mine were taking stand by passengers. They were still trying to get customers on flights cancelled from yesterday. This is another problem. I am not assigned a seat. Apparently, even though I am confirmed on the plane, does not mean I'm guaranteed to get on the flight. WTF? Really?
You should have heard me! I call my grandma because she's the only one who knows I'm coming home today. "This is f-in, bull s**t! If I don't get on this damn plane, I am going to be pissed. They do not want to hear what I have to say." And I went on and on and on. My grandma is probably thinking I'm nuts! I know she does! She tells me, "Ashley, you have to remain calm. You'll get on the flight." I say, "Oh hell yes, they'll get me on the flight!" Grandma, "If they don't, you better raise hell! And if you don't, I'll call United myself!" It's pretty comical how we are yelling at each other about how we're going to yell at United. Haha!
So, I wait. And I wait. And I wait. For five hours until my plane is ready to board. In the mean time, the woman standing behind me decides to blow her nose. It's not a normal blow. The nose blow is a gurgelly, snot blow. I am literally gagging right now. Good thing my backs to her because I may have thrown up on her! Then...the lady behind her was chowing on her apple, with her mouth wide open! I absolutely hate the sound of crunchy things when people are chewing with their mouths open. I don't need to hear you eating! Then...I see an albino, black baby. Yes, they do exist. He has the features of a black baby, his mom is black, and his little black afro was white! It's rather interesting and I am quite intrigued. Yes, I was one of those who stared. I have to figure it out!
Then. My flight gets delayed by an hour. Really? Of course. They say our flight lands in Chicago at 4:52. That's awesome because my flight from Chicago to Des Moines leaves at 4:55. How's that going to work? So, I do get a seat on the plane, thank God! I get on the plane and am setting next to a Jewish boy. I'm sitting there and all of a sudden I hear the clicking sound of a camera. I peak over, out of the corner of my eye, and notice the Yamaka-wearing lad is snapping pictures of me! His camera is tilted my way and I heard him snap it! What a creep! So, I catch him again waiting to snap a picture. So, I push my face back into my neck as hard as I can to create a double-chin and make a semi-unnormal face! Hehe! Take it and enjoy that! ;)
We arrive in Chicago and I book it to my gate. It's really funny because you can totally tell the difference in people leaving NYC and heading to DSM. In New York, people even dress up to go to the airport. I...am one of those people. I want to look nice for everyone! I knew exactly my gate when I am approaching--jeans, sweats, Christmas sweaters, and mullets are everywhere! No heels! No nice hair dos! All backpacks! Welcome home, is what I am thinking! :) Oh, how I missed this place!
I sit next to a Geology major who is studying in Scotland. Can someone please explain to me why every guy I talk to has to stutter? I mean, come on. What are the chances of this actually happening to someone? He stutters the whole time I'm talking with him. Brett from New York stutters too! I have an idea. Let's chalk it up to they are stunned with my beauty and have a hard time talking! Ha! Yeah right. I'm actually going to chalk it up to the fact that I can never meet normal men! ;)
Anyways...he teaches me English verbage and slang, gives me a few pointers on books I should read, and takes me back to high school, (my senior year in particular), and says, "Don't you remember when Dowling beat Southeast Polk your senior year? It's one of the highest scoring football games in Iowa history." Sir. I don't even remember what I did yesterday. How in the heck would I remember a football game from almost seven years ago? I remember high school and I had a blast, but come on now. You remember the score? Okay, so he's a guy and I'm sure it's probably normal, but still. He's also one of those people who laughs at his own jokes, that aren't really funny. However, what I find funny...when I am laughing, he thinks I'm laughing with him. Little does he know, I'm laughing at the fact that I think he is so weird and what he is saying is so random that I'm not surprised I'm sitting next to him, going through this right now. When we're talking about high school, he goes, "Let me guess, you went to Valley." What?! Are you kidding me? Why? Because I'm dressed nice? Because I'm bubbly and perky? Because maybe I have a bit of a personality? "Actually, no." Then I just sit and stare at him. It makes him uncomfortable, of course, which is my point. Ha! Bastard. Don't judge me.
I get home and I walk in. Brett and dad just stare in silence. They are so surprised and shocked to see me that they don't know what to say or do. It's quite funny. Grandma grabs me, while she's crying, and hugs me. I start to cry because I am so relieved and excited to finally be home after four months! Then dad says, "What the hell are you doing here?" then grabs me and gives me a huge hug to where I can't breathe! I walk upstairs to my mom's bedroom because she is bed ridden due to her terrible fall. She just starts balling when she sees me. "I am so glad to see you. I was so scared you weren't going to make it home and my Christmas would be ruined!" So, I start crying! It's a great reunion! I love surprising people! It's so much fun!
We relax, talk, laugh, and just hang out. It's fantastic!
Note to self: Remember that when you leave your place of residence and go to another state, things are different. The New York pace is about a hundred times faster than the Midwest. Remember this. Because when you are the only one in the O'Hare airport, pacing back and forth like a lunatic, looking out the windows, constantly checking the time on your phone, mumbling to yourself that we need to start boarding, etc., people will look at you funny! Remember when you're walking through the malls, people will go slow. It's no marathon like in the city. Take things slow and slow down your life. It's good for you and you will appreciate that you did this when you go back to the fast-paced lifestyle, you now call home.
Showing posts with label NYC Christmas. Show all posts
Showing posts with label NYC Christmas. Show all posts
Friday, December 25, 2009
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Day 110
December 23, 2009
I can hardly believe it's almost Christmas. Tomorrow is Christmas Eve! It's outrageous! Where does life go? I can tell you today is a much better day. No tears from this lady! I work at The Capital Grille today and it's great! I love the Christmas music they play. No one else really does, but it gets me in the holiday spirit! I also get off early, which is great because I have a ton of stuff to do!
My blog is going to be kind of short today because I don't really have a lot to write about. Shocking, I know. I always find things to say. But I am honestly to the point where I am so mentally exhausted, I don't really think about a whole lot. Today, at work, I was racking my brain to think of something...anything. Wasn't there. Now I know what ditsy people feel like everyday! Or men! Haha! JK! (Kind of).
I have decided though that text messaging or emailing is now the best way to get a hold of me. I haven't been that great at returning people's phone calls. The last three weeks of my life I have left my apartment at 8:30 a.m. and don't get home until at least 11:30 p.m.! By the time I get a second to pick up the phone, it's too late. So, if anyone ever wants to get a hold of me...shoot me an email or send me a quick text. Those are the two things I can do while on the job. If you call, don't expect a response for at least three days! I know...I've turned into one of those people I always hated.
I think it's karma getting back at me. Everything that I used to complain about in a person...I have turned into them because certain situations have caused me to. I get irritated with myself, but I can't fix the problem due to necessity. Oh well. I guess karma is a bitch after all. But I also love karma, because those who really need it, get it! Muahahahaha!
Note to self: Take a shower and go to bed! When you're exhausted, you're exhausted. Sleep. It's what will make you feel better. So, okay, goodnight!
I can hardly believe it's almost Christmas. Tomorrow is Christmas Eve! It's outrageous! Where does life go? I can tell you today is a much better day. No tears from this lady! I work at The Capital Grille today and it's great! I love the Christmas music they play. No one else really does, but it gets me in the holiday spirit! I also get off early, which is great because I have a ton of stuff to do!
My blog is going to be kind of short today because I don't really have a lot to write about. Shocking, I know. I always find things to say. But I am honestly to the point where I am so mentally exhausted, I don't really think about a whole lot. Today, at work, I was racking my brain to think of something...anything. Wasn't there. Now I know what ditsy people feel like everyday! Or men! Haha! JK! (Kind of).
I have decided though that text messaging or emailing is now the best way to get a hold of me. I haven't been that great at returning people's phone calls. The last three weeks of my life I have left my apartment at 8:30 a.m. and don't get home until at least 11:30 p.m.! By the time I get a second to pick up the phone, it's too late. So, if anyone ever wants to get a hold of me...shoot me an email or send me a quick text. Those are the two things I can do while on the job. If you call, don't expect a response for at least three days! I know...I've turned into one of those people I always hated.
I think it's karma getting back at me. Everything that I used to complain about in a person...I have turned into them because certain situations have caused me to. I get irritated with myself, but I can't fix the problem due to necessity. Oh well. I guess karma is a bitch after all. But I also love karma, because those who really need it, get it! Muahahahaha!
Note to self: Take a shower and go to bed! When you're exhausted, you're exhausted. Sleep. It's what will make you feel better. So, okay, goodnight!
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Day 102
December 16, 2009
Day 101! I should write a book. "101 Firsts of New York City," or something chotchy like that! Hehe! Like I said yesterday, I have loved every minute of it! As much as I hate somedays, love somedays, and am indifferent on others...I still love it all! What a better way to celebrate my first few hundred days than a visit from a great friend from back home! Caitlin is coming to visit and we are going to have a blast! Food, sightseeing, dancing--you name it, we have it covered!
So, back to today. It's a pretty low key day, which is perfectly fine with me! After my internship, I have a lot to do! Christmas shopping, writing cards, cleaning, etc. Guess what? I didn't really get a lot of it done, either! I'm so tired and burnt out! I can not even tell you how excited I am to come home! I need a break from this place, bad! I actually miss quite a lot about the Midwest. The smells, the grass, Target, my car (esp. now that it's getting cold!), and Midwestern hospitality. I'm about ready to burst. I need to see my family and my friends!
You know what else I miss? I was talking to my friend, Dyanna about this...Midwestern boys. I don't care what people say--men are men, this is true. But there is a difference! Trust me! My friend Greg and I were talking about this last night. He even says girls are different on the West coast (he lives in Utah). Sure, the opposite sexes are obviously very similar, but overall values, morals, and outlooks on life...so different! What are men's morals and values out here, you ask? They don't have any! Their outlook on life? Which life are you talking about? Their married life? Or their single life? They do like to live more than one at the same time out here! I think I have yet to experience a man like this, in NYC anyway, but my boss at the restaurant explains it to me like this...there are four types of men in this city:
1. Have a girlfriend
2. Are married
3. Divorced
4. Just got out of a relationship
What do all of these men have in common? They just want to have a good time. My boss tells me, "If you came out here looking for the love of your life, you can forget about it." Yikes! I've learned this is true. Good thing that isn't my intention and reason for moving out here! ;)
You know what I want? I'm pretty sure I already wrote about this in a blog from when I first moved here. A man who can dance! They seriously mesmerize me! I can't explain it how it affects me. I just fall in love at the first turn or hip swing! Whewey! I'm watching the So You Think You Can Dance finals. One of my managers at work's, step daughter, is Eleanor. She was in the top four! Cool, huh? She's amazing!!!!
Who likes J. Lo's new song? A song about Christian Louboutin shoes. Yes, they are my favorite shoe brand as well, but a song about them? Really? I'm not a big fan, but I guarantee you it will probably be a big hit at the dance clubs! Now, I just need to fork over about $700 for a pair and I'll be set! ;) Yeah, okay...maybe when I'm 60 and my student loans are paid off! ;)
The holidays totally make me all mushy and give me all sorts of warm fuzzies inside. I'm writing Christmas cards and I have small tears coming down my face. Maybe because it's been a rough week or so and I miss home and am ready for Christmas to see everyone. Pandora sappy Christmas music doesn't help either. But it's so good, I don't want to turn it off! ;)
Note to self: When you truly realize how massive of a control freak you are, maybe you should step back and calm yourself. It's not a good thing to want to be in such control that you take on more than your own problems, concerns, and destinies. It may or may not be a problem. A friend sent a text a while back that states, "Love yourself enough to stop trying to control other people. Focus on YOUR happiness and let them figure out theirs." I need to read this everyday. Probably seven times a day. You know you can't control your life, so why are you trying? Stop it! Enjoy the day has been given to you. You might not get the chance tomorrow.
I really need to listen to my own advice, even though when typing this, I'm talking to myself. It's so much easier said than done! I need to practice what I preach!
Day 101! I should write a book. "101 Firsts of New York City," or something chotchy like that! Hehe! Like I said yesterday, I have loved every minute of it! As much as I hate somedays, love somedays, and am indifferent on others...I still love it all! What a better way to celebrate my first few hundred days than a visit from a great friend from back home! Caitlin is coming to visit and we are going to have a blast! Food, sightseeing, dancing--you name it, we have it covered!
So, back to today. It's a pretty low key day, which is perfectly fine with me! After my internship, I have a lot to do! Christmas shopping, writing cards, cleaning, etc. Guess what? I didn't really get a lot of it done, either! I'm so tired and burnt out! I can not even tell you how excited I am to come home! I need a break from this place, bad! I actually miss quite a lot about the Midwest. The smells, the grass, Target, my car (esp. now that it's getting cold!), and Midwestern hospitality. I'm about ready to burst. I need to see my family and my friends!
You know what else I miss? I was talking to my friend, Dyanna about this...Midwestern boys. I don't care what people say--men are men, this is true. But there is a difference! Trust me! My friend Greg and I were talking about this last night. He even says girls are different on the West coast (he lives in Utah). Sure, the opposite sexes are obviously very similar, but overall values, morals, and outlooks on life...so different! What are men's morals and values out here, you ask? They don't have any! Their outlook on life? Which life are you talking about? Their married life? Or their single life? They do like to live more than one at the same time out here! I think I have yet to experience a man like this, in NYC anyway, but my boss at the restaurant explains it to me like this...there are four types of men in this city:
1. Have a girlfriend
2. Are married
3. Divorced
4. Just got out of a relationship
What do all of these men have in common? They just want to have a good time. My boss tells me, "If you came out here looking for the love of your life, you can forget about it." Yikes! I've learned this is true. Good thing that isn't my intention and reason for moving out here! ;)
You know what I want? I'm pretty sure I already wrote about this in a blog from when I first moved here. A man who can dance! They seriously mesmerize me! I can't explain it how it affects me. I just fall in love at the first turn or hip swing! Whewey! I'm watching the So You Think You Can Dance finals. One of my managers at work's, step daughter, is Eleanor. She was in the top four! Cool, huh? She's amazing!!!!
Who likes J. Lo's new song? A song about Christian Louboutin shoes. Yes, they are my favorite shoe brand as well, but a song about them? Really? I'm not a big fan, but I guarantee you it will probably be a big hit at the dance clubs! Now, I just need to fork over about $700 for a pair and I'll be set! ;) Yeah, okay...maybe when I'm 60 and my student loans are paid off! ;)
The holidays totally make me all mushy and give me all sorts of warm fuzzies inside. I'm writing Christmas cards and I have small tears coming down my face. Maybe because it's been a rough week or so and I miss home and am ready for Christmas to see everyone. Pandora sappy Christmas music doesn't help either. But it's so good, I don't want to turn it off! ;)
Note to self: When you truly realize how massive of a control freak you are, maybe you should step back and calm yourself. It's not a good thing to want to be in such control that you take on more than your own problems, concerns, and destinies. It may or may not be a problem. A friend sent a text a while back that states, "Love yourself enough to stop trying to control other people. Focus on YOUR happiness and let them figure out theirs." I need to read this everyday. Probably seven times a day. You know you can't control your life, so why are you trying? Stop it! Enjoy the day has been given to you. You might not get the chance tomorrow.
I really need to listen to my own advice, even though when typing this, I'm talking to myself. It's so much easier said than done! I need to practice what I preach!
Monday, December 14, 2009
Day 100
December 14, 2009
Today proves to be a much better day than yesterday. No tears caressing my cheeks, no soaking wet clothes, and no more negative nelly! The morning, however, I can't say is the best. I still wake up in a dramatically bad mood. I am such a drama queen sometimes, I get irritated with myself. I actually think that's the majority of my problem. I realize how ridiculous I am, but by the time I do, I'm already too far into my argument, that I'm so annoyed with my attitude and I don't know how to get out of it. I just need time, I guess. So, I want to apologize to my family, who had to hear me, essentially bitch, yesterday. It was completely unnecessary, but thanks for listening! It helps!
I call my dad. He gives me really good advice, as always, which makes me feel better. Everyone in my family gives me good advice, but as we all know, we take everyone's advice differently. So, now I'm out of my bad mood. Once again, I go to The Capital Grille to work, and I forgot I changed around my schedule with Kara, so I don't work. This is the second time I do this! I guess I love my job so much, I always want to be there! ;) No, it really is a great place to work!
Now, I'm on a mission for a Christmas gift. Every year since I was in the fourth grade, my family and I have done what's called, Secret Santa's. My mom, dad, brother, and I draw a name and we get our "Santa" a $15 gift. Something that's fun. This year, I have a great gift! I obviously can't tell you who I have, but my gift is pretty awesome! And the wrapping...get out of town! It's totally original. So, we all know how I'm the cheapest person alive. I refuse to spend $4 on wrapping paper. So, I use old magazines, and painter's tape (because I don't have regular tape, nor do I want to spend $2 on it at the drugstore), and go to town! Remember in 2nd grade, when you would cut letters out of a magazine and glue them together to make words? Well, that's what I did for my gift tag! Haha! It's awesome! Good idea, huh? I have taken cheap and poor to the extreme. But I like to look at it as creative, not cheap. It's more authentic this way! ;)
My apartment looks fabulous! I cleaned it from top to bottom, all while baking cookies and listening to Pandora Christmas music, of course! Watch out, I'm turning into a real life Suzy Homemaker! Someday, I will make a pretty cool mom and wife! I got the itch for a kid the other day at The Capital Grille. Crazy, right? I was a little petrified myself when the feeling came over me! A family came in and there was about 12 people in their party. They had grandma, grandpa, aunt, uncle, etc. There was a little boy, I'd say about four years old, dressed in a navy blue peacoat, with combed over hair. Oh my God, he was cute! All I could think of was, I want my little boy to look like this when I have one. I fell in love. And he wanted to follow me into the room, so I escorted him. When we got to the room, he looked and me and said, "Thank you, ma'am." Sweet Jesus, melt my heart. Then he introduced himself with his big brown eyes staring right at me as his tiny hand shook mine. I wanted to take him home.
Quickly, the feeling ended when the next family came in and their kids were running all over the place, screaming like maniacs! It was then that I realized, my children will be "those kids" who are holy terrors! I will be blessed with the pleasure of taking care of little heathens! No cute peacoats for them. They will probably want to wear spandex and over sized Teletubbies sweatshirts. ;)
Tomorrow is the massive beauty sale at my internship! I am stocking up and loading up beauty supplies on the cheap! Whew hew! It's Christmas shopping on the fly!
I will have you know, I have not turned on the television once tonight. It's quite nice! I talked with my best guy friend, Greg, tonight. He is so funny, but going through a rough break up right now. I went through the same thing in June as he did, so I can relate to what he's going through. It's no fun. And he is absolutely crazy about this girl. She screwed up a good thing. He is such a great person and she took advantage of that. I don't understand people. Sounds all too familiar to me. Listen to what he did.
He told her he was going to take her to the best restaurant in Salt Lake City (that's where he lives). He turns his apartment into a mini restaurant! He cooks her dinner and even goes into the bathroom to change clothes from a waiter, to her date, to a cook! How sweet is that? And for Christmas...he made her a book of pictures of all of the goofy things they've done together and cool places they've gone! It's great! Only if I can find someone to do nice things like this for me! Some guys don't understand that it's the little things in life that matter. This dinner he made for her is so much better than a fancy shmancy restaurant any where in the world. Take note, fellas!
Note to self: Take negative energy and turn it into something positive. Why waste time on something you know isn't going to work out? Focus your time and energy on what's important in your life right now. You don't get this time back. When you are faced with a challenge, face it with confidence and courage. Don't be afraid to look at the challenge, delete it from your memory, and move on. When someone tells you to forget about it. Forget about it. They're right. The hurt and frustration you're going through isn't worth all the heartache. When you realize you do have so much going for you and there is better out there, take that ammo and push through it. It's not easy, by no means, but it can only make you stronger and make your ambitious drive that much harder. (Thanks dad! ;) )
Today proves to be a much better day than yesterday. No tears caressing my cheeks, no soaking wet clothes, and no more negative nelly! The morning, however, I can't say is the best. I still wake up in a dramatically bad mood. I am such a drama queen sometimes, I get irritated with myself. I actually think that's the majority of my problem. I realize how ridiculous I am, but by the time I do, I'm already too far into my argument, that I'm so annoyed with my attitude and I don't know how to get out of it. I just need time, I guess. So, I want to apologize to my family, who had to hear me, essentially bitch, yesterday. It was completely unnecessary, but thanks for listening! It helps!
I call my dad. He gives me really good advice, as always, which makes me feel better. Everyone in my family gives me good advice, but as we all know, we take everyone's advice differently. So, now I'm out of my bad mood. Once again, I go to The Capital Grille to work, and I forgot I changed around my schedule with Kara, so I don't work. This is the second time I do this! I guess I love my job so much, I always want to be there! ;) No, it really is a great place to work!
Now, I'm on a mission for a Christmas gift. Every year since I was in the fourth grade, my family and I have done what's called, Secret Santa's. My mom, dad, brother, and I draw a name and we get our "Santa" a $15 gift. Something that's fun. This year, I have a great gift! I obviously can't tell you who I have, but my gift is pretty awesome! And the wrapping...get out of town! It's totally original. So, we all know how I'm the cheapest person alive. I refuse to spend $4 on wrapping paper. So, I use old magazines, and painter's tape (because I don't have regular tape, nor do I want to spend $2 on it at the drugstore), and go to town! Remember in 2nd grade, when you would cut letters out of a magazine and glue them together to make words? Well, that's what I did for my gift tag! Haha! It's awesome! Good idea, huh? I have taken cheap and poor to the extreme. But I like to look at it as creative, not cheap. It's more authentic this way! ;)
My apartment looks fabulous! I cleaned it from top to bottom, all while baking cookies and listening to Pandora Christmas music, of course! Watch out, I'm turning into a real life Suzy Homemaker! Someday, I will make a pretty cool mom and wife! I got the itch for a kid the other day at The Capital Grille. Crazy, right? I was a little petrified myself when the feeling came over me! A family came in and there was about 12 people in their party. They had grandma, grandpa, aunt, uncle, etc. There was a little boy, I'd say about four years old, dressed in a navy blue peacoat, with combed over hair. Oh my God, he was cute! All I could think of was, I want my little boy to look like this when I have one. I fell in love. And he wanted to follow me into the room, so I escorted him. When we got to the room, he looked and me and said, "Thank you, ma'am." Sweet Jesus, melt my heart. Then he introduced himself with his big brown eyes staring right at me as his tiny hand shook mine. I wanted to take him home.
Quickly, the feeling ended when the next family came in and their kids were running all over the place, screaming like maniacs! It was then that I realized, my children will be "those kids" who are holy terrors! I will be blessed with the pleasure of taking care of little heathens! No cute peacoats for them. They will probably want to wear spandex and over sized Teletubbies sweatshirts. ;)
Tomorrow is the massive beauty sale at my internship! I am stocking up and loading up beauty supplies on the cheap! Whew hew! It's Christmas shopping on the fly!
I will have you know, I have not turned on the television once tonight. It's quite nice! I talked with my best guy friend, Greg, tonight. He is so funny, but going through a rough break up right now. I went through the same thing in June as he did, so I can relate to what he's going through. It's no fun. And he is absolutely crazy about this girl. She screwed up a good thing. He is such a great person and she took advantage of that. I don't understand people. Sounds all too familiar to me. Listen to what he did.
He told her he was going to take her to the best restaurant in Salt Lake City (that's where he lives). He turns his apartment into a mini restaurant! He cooks her dinner and even goes into the bathroom to change clothes from a waiter, to her date, to a cook! How sweet is that? And for Christmas...he made her a book of pictures of all of the goofy things they've done together and cool places they've gone! It's great! Only if I can find someone to do nice things like this for me! Some guys don't understand that it's the little things in life that matter. This dinner he made for her is so much better than a fancy shmancy restaurant any where in the world. Take note, fellas!
Note to self: Take negative energy and turn it into something positive. Why waste time on something you know isn't going to work out? Focus your time and energy on what's important in your life right now. You don't get this time back. When you are faced with a challenge, face it with confidence and courage. Don't be afraid to look at the challenge, delete it from your memory, and move on. When someone tells you to forget about it. Forget about it. They're right. The hurt and frustration you're going through isn't worth all the heartache. When you realize you do have so much going for you and there is better out there, take that ammo and push through it. It's not easy, by no means, but it can only make you stronger and make your ambitious drive that much harder. (Thanks dad! ;) )
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Day 91
December 6, 2009
Happy birthday to Jennifer--my bro's ex-girlfriend! She's still family to us! I cannot believe my brother and his friends are turning 21 years old! I remember when they were twelve years old and irritating as hell! All they were interested in was bothering my friends and I because they thought my friends were hott. Now, they're all really cool and fun to go out with! Too bad my designated drivers are diminishing one by one! Haha, just kidding! I never did that! ;)
So, today. I'm not going to lie. Overall, isn't a great day. Shopping is depressing because I want a Kate Spade handbag, that's on sale, and can't have it. I know what you're thinking...what a spoiled brat! Trust me...I'm thinking the same exact thing! I'm not used to not getting what I want. I am such a spoiled brat, and I throw a tantrum on the phone when I know I can't get it. Again...I know. I just dropped my mouth re-reading this, while shaking my head, realizing how ridiculous I am right now! I'm actually quite embarrassed with myself!
Ugh! I hate weighing my options between a material object and having money for when a friend comes in town. I would much rather have fun with my friend! I know I should be grateful, because having a great friend from home here is way better than a stupid handbag. But considering, I've never had to do this...I don't like it one bit! Welcome to the real world, Ashley! All I keep thinking is...wait until I have kids. Yikes! Then, I really won't get anything I want. Boo to babies, when it comes to that! =)
THEN...I came to the realization that I'm a heffer! Yes, a heffer! Since the summer, I went from a size four, to a size six. Gross! I miss my size four jeans. It's actually really difficult for me to write about this, but whatever. I talk to my mom and grandma, and they tell me my face has gotten, and I quote, "chubby." Ugh! I'm pretty sure my self-confidence went from about an 8 to about a -2. I don't want to be "chubby." Whatever. I do realize that last year, I was a tad on the thin side, due to some high and unneeded stress in my life, but I was happy with my weight. Not so happy with my life, like I am now, but I liked my size four booty! So...I'm bound and determined to get back to that way!
On a lighter note! I get to see the Rockefeller Christmas tree tonight! It's amazingly beautiful! The lights are so bright, and sparkle so pretty in the night sky! Especially the Swarovski crystal star! They have an up-close version you can look at. Amazing is all I can say! Phil says he used his bedazzler at home to make it! Haha! Impressive. I take Phil on a hunt around the city to find the spectacular lights and windows the city has to offer. He's really excited about it! I can see it in his eyes! Ha! Yea right! He secretly enjoyed it! =)
We don't get very far...it's way too cold to wander around a city, where you have no idea where you're going! We travel to Rockefeller Center and on the way, we come across Saks Fifth Avenue. The windows are great, but the best part are the HUGE snowflakes that adorn the whole side of the large building. They flash to the beats and booms to the "Carol of the Bells," Christmas song. Check it out by the Trans Siberian Orchestra! Just click ahead to 40 seconds...that's when it starts getting good! It's a cool light show Saks puts on!
Okay, so I have a funny story, that only some may understand. Mind you...this is the first time Phil and I have been out together just the two of us. A couple from Washington state ask me if I can take their picture in front of the tree. I say sure. So, they hand me their camera and I say, "Okay, one second. Let me just get the tip in a little bit." I'm instantly embarrassed. All I can think of saying is the classic phrase, "That's what she said." Lol! Of course that would come out of my mouth right then, right?
While searching for Carol of the Bells, I stumble across my all-time favorite Christmas song, that translates into a wedding march! "Christmas Canon," also known as "Canon D." It's so pretty and one day (when I do decide to settle down and get married), this is what I'll be marching down to. Hopefully to a live orchestra (focusing on violins, of course!) Yeah, I already told dad to start saving now! Hehe! I get chills every time I hear it. Listen to it here! So, since I'm feeling sorry for myself today, what better way to make your self-esteem go way up, then listen to this song...single...and home alone. =) Lol! It really is beautiful! It gets me excited to come and spend time with family and friends! Can't wait to see everyone!
Note to self: When you ask someone for advice, be 100 percent prepared for their answer! If you're not ready to hear the truth, please, DON'T ASK! Your family is the most brutally honest people in the world...they're not afraid to hurt your feelings. Nor should they be. So when you ask if they can tell you've gained a bit of weight...expect to know what they're going to say. You already know the answer. Why do you need someone to confirm it? Sure...you probably look healthier than last year, but it still really pisses you off to the point where you want to scream. So, buck up, jump on the treadmill, and trim it off!
Happy birthday to Jennifer--my bro's ex-girlfriend! She's still family to us! I cannot believe my brother and his friends are turning 21 years old! I remember when they were twelve years old and irritating as hell! All they were interested in was bothering my friends and I because they thought my friends were hott. Now, they're all really cool and fun to go out with! Too bad my designated drivers are diminishing one by one! Haha, just kidding! I never did that! ;)
So, today. I'm not going to lie. Overall, isn't a great day. Shopping is depressing because I want a Kate Spade handbag, that's on sale, and can't have it. I know what you're thinking...what a spoiled brat! Trust me...I'm thinking the same exact thing! I'm not used to not getting what I want. I am such a spoiled brat, and I throw a tantrum on the phone when I know I can't get it. Again...I know. I just dropped my mouth re-reading this, while shaking my head, realizing how ridiculous I am right now! I'm actually quite embarrassed with myself!
Ugh! I hate weighing my options between a material object and having money for when a friend comes in town. I would much rather have fun with my friend! I know I should be grateful, because having a great friend from home here is way better than a stupid handbag. But considering, I've never had to do this...I don't like it one bit! Welcome to the real world, Ashley! All I keep thinking is...wait until I have kids. Yikes! Then, I really won't get anything I want. Boo to babies, when it comes to that! =)
THEN...I came to the realization that I'm a heffer! Yes, a heffer! Since the summer, I went from a size four, to a size six. Gross! I miss my size four jeans. It's actually really difficult for me to write about this, but whatever. I talk to my mom and grandma, and they tell me my face has gotten, and I quote, "chubby." Ugh! I'm pretty sure my self-confidence went from about an 8 to about a -2. I don't want to be "chubby." Whatever. I do realize that last year, I was a tad on the thin side, due to some high and unneeded stress in my life, but I was happy with my weight. Not so happy with my life, like I am now, but I liked my size four booty! So...I'm bound and determined to get back to that way!
On a lighter note! I get to see the Rockefeller Christmas tree tonight! It's amazingly beautiful! The lights are so bright, and sparkle so pretty in the night sky! Especially the Swarovski crystal star! They have an up-close version you can look at. Amazing is all I can say! Phil says he used his bedazzler at home to make it! Haha! Impressive. I take Phil on a hunt around the city to find the spectacular lights and windows the city has to offer. He's really excited about it! I can see it in his eyes! Ha! Yea right! He secretly enjoyed it! =)
We don't get very far...it's way too cold to wander around a city, where you have no idea where you're going! We travel to Rockefeller Center and on the way, we come across Saks Fifth Avenue. The windows are great, but the best part are the HUGE snowflakes that adorn the whole side of the large building. They flash to the beats and booms to the "Carol of the Bells," Christmas song. Check it out by the Trans Siberian Orchestra! Just click ahead to 40 seconds...that's when it starts getting good! It's a cool light show Saks puts on!
Okay, so I have a funny story, that only some may understand. Mind you...this is the first time Phil and I have been out together just the two of us. A couple from Washington state ask me if I can take their picture in front of the tree. I say sure. So, they hand me their camera and I say, "Okay, one second. Let me just get the tip in a little bit." I'm instantly embarrassed. All I can think of saying is the classic phrase, "That's what she said." Lol! Of course that would come out of my mouth right then, right?
While searching for Carol of the Bells, I stumble across my all-time favorite Christmas song, that translates into a wedding march! "Christmas Canon," also known as "Canon D." It's so pretty and one day (when I do decide to settle down and get married), this is what I'll be marching down to. Hopefully to a live orchestra (focusing on violins, of course!) Yeah, I already told dad to start saving now! Hehe! I get chills every time I hear it. Listen to it here! So, since I'm feeling sorry for myself today, what better way to make your self-esteem go way up, then listen to this song...single...and home alone. =) Lol! It really is beautiful! It gets me excited to come and spend time with family and friends! Can't wait to see everyone!
Note to self: When you ask someone for advice, be 100 percent prepared for their answer! If you're not ready to hear the truth, please, DON'T ASK! Your family is the most brutally honest people in the world...they're not afraid to hurt your feelings. Nor should they be. So when you ask if they can tell you've gained a bit of weight...expect to know what they're going to say. You already know the answer. Why do you need someone to confirm it? Sure...you probably look healthier than last year, but it still really pisses you off to the point where you want to scream. So, buck up, jump on the treadmill, and trim it off!
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Day 86
December 1, 2009
I cannot believe it's December 1st! I know I say this about every month, but come one now...2009 is almost over! It's been a long, rough year, so 2010 is looking pretty good! I'm just going to enjoy the Christmas season in NYC for right now. We'll worry about 2010 in 29 days, or whatever it is. It's so beautiful here, I can't even explain it! It puts you in the holiday spirit every time you turn your head. Whether it's wreaths, trees, lights upon lights, or shopping bags adorned with Christmas decor. Sunday is my day off work, and I am going to go window shopping at the major department stores, who have their windows all decked out! Insanely creative and beautiful!
So, yesterday. I know, I know. I need to start getting back into the swing of blogging. So, I'm starting tonight! Yesterday was a good day. I got more free stuff from work! Yay! Christmas gifts! ;) It's a poor woman's holiday working there!
After work, I book it home to get ready for a going away party for a college friend. She is moving back to Wisconsin, so a few of her friends got together to wish her well! We went to Aspen Social Club. It's a really cool place! It has a very cabin feel to it, which makes it very homey. I stay there for a while, have a couple of drinks, and then have to head out to go to work. It's only for a couple of hours, but it's necessity for the holiday season.
Then...I meet up with a kid named Brett. Weird huh? I thought so too. Believe it or not, he's actually above the height of 5'11". You don't see that very often out here. No one believes me, but when my brother came out here, he noticed the same thing. So, for a girl at the height of 5'9", such as myself, it's hard to find a guy that you can wear heels around. He's a breathe of fresh air. However, it gets confusing when he's texting me and my brother, Brett, is texting me. I tend to tell the guys the same things twice, possibly three times, because I don't pay attention to which Brett it is. Sometimes, I get irritated because I think to myself, I already told you this. Or I think, What are you talking about? This text must be meant for someone else. It's highly confusing, so now I have to take an extra two seconds to realize which one is talking to me before I respond. I have them saved as "Brett" and "Brett NY." Maybe I should figure out a bit of a bigger identification gap.
We meet at Rudy's. It's a dive bar, but it's pretty cool. They give out free hot dogs, which my brother took complete advantage of when he was out here, celebrating my birthday! Ha! Anyways, the date went well. I was a little bored when he was basically mapping out the whole Jersey Shore on the table. I don't care where these places are. You're speaking a foreign language to me right now, Brett. You talk like I know what you're saying. I don't. So, I simply smile and nod, and pop in with the occasional, "Oh okay, yea!" =) Hehe! I act interested, but in the back of my mind, all I can think of is the great song playing in the background, how I really like his outfit--the Burberry scarf is a nice touch, how he has a nicely sculpted figure, and how my drink tastes fabulous! =)
We leave Rudy's and head to Mercury Bar. He's a man's man, so he likes beer and sports. Points to him! It's a sports bar. I've never been, but will tell you that I will be going back! It's fun! Let's back up a bit. It's now 1:00 a.m. and I've been up since 6:30! I'm beat, but we keep talking. The topic of Kobe Bryant got brought up and how he bought his wife a $4 million ring. I pop in with, "Yea, but it's a Harry Winston! I want a Harry Winston someday!" Yea, probably not a good idea to tell someone that on a first date. Then...as we were leaving, we were walking outside, and as I'm talking, my gum falls out of my mouth and lands on my scarf. Wonderful! He goes, "Oh. Do you want another piece?" Haha! I say, "Oh no, I'm okay, thanks." Dang it. Lol!
Then! Yes, I know. There is a then! First of all, you have to remember, after two drinks, I get pretty talkative and pretty honest. So...we're talking about dating in the city, politics of the city, stereotypes in the city, etc. I proceed to tell him that because I'm blonde, I can pretty much get away with whatever I want. Ah geeze, Ashley. What the hell? However, it is true. Ask my brother. When he was here he would always go, "Jesus Ashley. People do anything for you out here. You get three packages of Cranberries, I only get one. You get the door held open for you and when I go to walk through it, it gets shut in my face!" Lol! It's true. There aren't a lot of blondes out here, so when people see us, they naturally tend to look. So, why I kept proceeding to tell my date this last night, I don't know. I'm an idiot. He's probably thinking, You egotistical little brat. Get over yourself. You're not that attractive! That's what I would think. Rookie mistake!
So, like I said, he's a pretty cool guy. One problem: he stutters. Kind of bad. Which isn't a bad thing, but I feel bad when he's trying to say a word and I just want to punch it out of him! A text from my friend Dyanna this morning, "Lock it up, Toncar! "I wha-wha-want to take y-y-you out ag-ag-again."" Okay, this morning, I found this hilarious! I was laughing out loud in my cubicle! Now that I'm typing it out, I'm slowly realizing how big of a jerk I'm sounding. I'm chalking it up to him maybe being nervous or something.
P.S., I don't get home until 2:30 a.m. and I have to get up at 7 a.m. Oops!
One more thing: the firefighter that works at the station right by apartment. Holy fire blazes! He's hott! He's probably, and I'm not exaggerating, 6'8". He's so tall and so manly! Everytime we see each other, we smile and exchange the "Hi, how are you?" One of these days, a conversation is going strike up and let's hope for smooth sailing! I have a massive crush on him and I don't know anything about him! Strictly, that he's a firefighter (bonus!), he's really tall (bonus!), he's extremely attractive (bonus!), and he seems really nice (definite bonus!). What more can I ask for at this point in my life? Just a date. I don't think it's so much to ask for! Keep your fingers crossed for me!
Note to self: Be careful and very mindful of those around you when carrying an umbrella. It's not a good thing when your umbrella catches a black man's doo-rag and yanks it a little. Because then you get nervous and panic for a split second because you don't know what to do. Do you confront the issue, possible creating a confrontation that doesn't need to be made, or do you smile, say sorry really quickly, and keep walking at a fast pace? Option two sounds like a great idea! Done and done!
AND! THE NEXT TEN BLOGS WILL BE ABOUT MINE AND BRETT'S TRIP! PLEASE TAKE THE TIME TO READ EACH BLOG! I PROMISE YOU WILL ENJOY EVERY WORD! SHARE IN OUR WEEK AND A HALF OF EATING WAY TOO MUCH, DRINKING TOO MUCH, AND EXPERIENCING EVERYTHING FROM TOURISTY TO LOCAL NEW YORK CITY!
I cannot believe it's December 1st! I know I say this about every month, but come one now...2009 is almost over! It's been a long, rough year, so 2010 is looking pretty good! I'm just going to enjoy the Christmas season in NYC for right now. We'll worry about 2010 in 29 days, or whatever it is. It's so beautiful here, I can't even explain it! It puts you in the holiday spirit every time you turn your head. Whether it's wreaths, trees, lights upon lights, or shopping bags adorned with Christmas decor. Sunday is my day off work, and I am going to go window shopping at the major department stores, who have their windows all decked out! Insanely creative and beautiful!
So, yesterday. I know, I know. I need to start getting back into the swing of blogging. So, I'm starting tonight! Yesterday was a good day. I got more free stuff from work! Yay! Christmas gifts! ;) It's a poor woman's holiday working there!
After work, I book it home to get ready for a going away party for a college friend. She is moving back to Wisconsin, so a few of her friends got together to wish her well! We went to Aspen Social Club. It's a really cool place! It has a very cabin feel to it, which makes it very homey. I stay there for a while, have a couple of drinks, and then have to head out to go to work. It's only for a couple of hours, but it's necessity for the holiday season.
Then...I meet up with a kid named Brett. Weird huh? I thought so too. Believe it or not, he's actually above the height of 5'11". You don't see that very often out here. No one believes me, but when my brother came out here, he noticed the same thing. So, for a girl at the height of 5'9", such as myself, it's hard to find a guy that you can wear heels around. He's a breathe of fresh air. However, it gets confusing when he's texting me and my brother, Brett, is texting me. I tend to tell the guys the same things twice, possibly three times, because I don't pay attention to which Brett it is. Sometimes, I get irritated because I think to myself, I already told you this. Or I think, What are you talking about? This text must be meant for someone else. It's highly confusing, so now I have to take an extra two seconds to realize which one is talking to me before I respond. I have them saved as "Brett" and "Brett NY." Maybe I should figure out a bit of a bigger identification gap.
We meet at Rudy's. It's a dive bar, but it's pretty cool. They give out free hot dogs, which my brother took complete advantage of when he was out here, celebrating my birthday! Ha! Anyways, the date went well. I was a little bored when he was basically mapping out the whole Jersey Shore on the table. I don't care where these places are. You're speaking a foreign language to me right now, Brett. You talk like I know what you're saying. I don't. So, I simply smile and nod, and pop in with the occasional, "Oh okay, yea!" =) Hehe! I act interested, but in the back of my mind, all I can think of is the great song playing in the background, how I really like his outfit--the Burberry scarf is a nice touch, how he has a nicely sculpted figure, and how my drink tastes fabulous! =)
We leave Rudy's and head to Mercury Bar. He's a man's man, so he likes beer and sports. Points to him! It's a sports bar. I've never been, but will tell you that I will be going back! It's fun! Let's back up a bit. It's now 1:00 a.m. and I've been up since 6:30! I'm beat, but we keep talking. The topic of Kobe Bryant got brought up and how he bought his wife a $4 million ring. I pop in with, "Yea, but it's a Harry Winston! I want a Harry Winston someday!" Yea, probably not a good idea to tell someone that on a first date. Then...as we were leaving, we were walking outside, and as I'm talking, my gum falls out of my mouth and lands on my scarf. Wonderful! He goes, "Oh. Do you want another piece?" Haha! I say, "Oh no, I'm okay, thanks." Dang it. Lol!
Then! Yes, I know. There is a then! First of all, you have to remember, after two drinks, I get pretty talkative and pretty honest. So...we're talking about dating in the city, politics of the city, stereotypes in the city, etc. I proceed to tell him that because I'm blonde, I can pretty much get away with whatever I want. Ah geeze, Ashley. What the hell? However, it is true. Ask my brother. When he was here he would always go, "Jesus Ashley. People do anything for you out here. You get three packages of Cranberries, I only get one. You get the door held open for you and when I go to walk through it, it gets shut in my face!" Lol! It's true. There aren't a lot of blondes out here, so when people see us, they naturally tend to look. So, why I kept proceeding to tell my date this last night, I don't know. I'm an idiot. He's probably thinking, You egotistical little brat. Get over yourself. You're not that attractive! That's what I would think. Rookie mistake!
So, like I said, he's a pretty cool guy. One problem: he stutters. Kind of bad. Which isn't a bad thing, but I feel bad when he's trying to say a word and I just want to punch it out of him! A text from my friend Dyanna this morning, "Lock it up, Toncar! "I wha-wha-want to take y-y-you out ag-ag-again."" Okay, this morning, I found this hilarious! I was laughing out loud in my cubicle! Now that I'm typing it out, I'm slowly realizing how big of a jerk I'm sounding. I'm chalking it up to him maybe being nervous or something.
P.S., I don't get home until 2:30 a.m. and I have to get up at 7 a.m. Oops!
One more thing: the firefighter that works at the station right by apartment. Holy fire blazes! He's hott! He's probably, and I'm not exaggerating, 6'8". He's so tall and so manly! Everytime we see each other, we smile and exchange the "Hi, how are you?" One of these days, a conversation is going strike up and let's hope for smooth sailing! I have a massive crush on him and I don't know anything about him! Strictly, that he's a firefighter (bonus!), he's really tall (bonus!), he's extremely attractive (bonus!), and he seems really nice (definite bonus!). What more can I ask for at this point in my life? Just a date. I don't think it's so much to ask for! Keep your fingers crossed for me!
Note to self: Be careful and very mindful of those around you when carrying an umbrella. It's not a good thing when your umbrella catches a black man's doo-rag and yanks it a little. Because then you get nervous and panic for a split second because you don't know what to do. Do you confront the issue, possible creating a confrontation that doesn't need to be made, or do you smile, say sorry really quickly, and keep walking at a fast pace? Option two sounds like a great idea! Done and done!
AND! THE NEXT TEN BLOGS WILL BE ABOUT MINE AND BRETT'S TRIP! PLEASE TAKE THE TIME TO READ EACH BLOG! I PROMISE YOU WILL ENJOY EVERY WORD! SHARE IN OUR WEEK AND A HALF OF EATING WAY TOO MUCH, DRINKING TOO MUCH, AND EXPERIENCING EVERYTHING FROM TOURISTY TO LOCAL NEW YORK CITY!