Some of this Might Not Be True

I Know I Swore...

2010-07-30T13:24:00.002-04:00

that I would never blog here again, but I wanted to share this.

Who the eff is this bluegrape person? You gotta love the internet...even strangers can give you their opinion, even if they think it is humble.

Hope everyone is having a happy summer!

Last Lost, Last Blog

2010-05-24T15:28:00.002-04:00

Lost is done. Last night I went back and forth between being excited to be watching it and being so sad that it was the last one. I didn't expect it to be perfect, but it was close for sure.

First off, I did not expect the sideways world to be purgatory or for there to be purgatory at all because the producers always said it wasn't. I guess technically they said the island wasn't purgatory, but whatever. I thought it opened up a lot of interpretation for fans. My interpretation - the island existed, Jack died there. Possibly Hurley and Ben. Sawyer, Kate, Claire, etc. got off the island and died later. But that's my interpretation...

I loved that it ended as it began. I loved the massive fight scene between Jack and Flocke where Jack leaped through the air to woop his ass. I loved ALL the moments where everyone had their flashes and saw their island lives. I loved the humor and the great lines. I loved that it felt kind of a like a first season episode. People were working in groups for a common goal. And while I know that everyone on the show is technically dead, I am glad no one died on the island - except Jack I guess, but it was too awesome of a scene to not like.

I can't wait to go back and watch the whole thing all over again. I can't wait for the super awesome box set. I think I could think about this show forever and ever and never think the same thing.

As for this blog, I am going to just give in and say that I am not going to be keeping up with it anymore. I've tried, but it is so hard to do. And then I feel like a bad blogger. I want to be dedicated. I also have a school blog that I want to devote my blogging time to. It's just a place where I spin wheels and reflect on stuff. If you want to read that, go here. (Although it's been a while since I've updated that one).

Anyhoo, I'm on Facebook and Twitter, so ya'll will be able to find me.

A Truth

2010-05-21T00:37:00.002-04:00

I feel like I can only admit this on my blog where not many people go...

I've been watching the show Thirtysomething on streaming Netflix,

and well...

I relate to the characters.

I remember watching this show on Lifetime when I was 13 or 14 and thinking everyone seemed so old.

And now I get it. And they don't seem old at all now.

I feel old.

I know, I know...been a long time

2010-04-28T18:47:00.002-04:00

There's a lot to talk about and not much at all to talk about.

I am about a week away from being done with coursework. Huz-fucking-zah. Although this excites me to no end (not having to go to class, not having to deal with irritable classmates, not having to do papers on a deadline), I am also a little nervous, just because that'll mean that I'll have to do some serious self-disciplining. I've also never been a student and not gone to classes.

It is also making the PhD seem more real. I mean, coursework was a reality, but a comprehensive exam and then a dissertation? I get really nervous thinking about it. But I guess like all things, eventually it will come to an end, mostly because it has to.

I also still feel like a fraud now and then. And that some of my fellow students seem more serious about it than I am. But these feelings are few and far between and occasionally I feel as though I have a lot to contribute to this field. And that is rewarding.

I am not going to work this summer. It will probably be my last summer to really take off and enjoy and I have plenty in savings so it's swingable. Not that it will really be a summer off. I plan on getting organized for my comps in the fall. I plan on updating my online portfolio and actually getting it online. I am going to finish up design work on an online literary journal that a couple of my friends started. I am going to be in Michigan for a few weeks. I am finally going to go to Santa Fe. I am thinking of going to the gym for a couple of hours a day (one of those hours is going to be yoga...remember when I used to be really, really into yoga? Yeah, not so much anymore). I am going to move to another part of town where most of my friends live and where my favorite bar is. And if all goes well, I'll get to teach a class of my own design in the fall that I am calling "The Rhetoric of Going Green" and I'll have to do a lot of planning for that.

Ummm, and that's about it for me for now. Have a couple of conference proposals to work on, but all in all, by the end of May, I'll be seriously without school. Yay!

Lost Lost Lost

2010-03-10T09:51:00.002-05:00

(Spoilers Ahead)

So Ben Linus is ultimately good? Is that what we learned from last night's episode? I'm happy with that if that's the case. I think it is good for Ben to really act on his own accord. My god, wasn't that scene when he cried out, "He's the only one who'll have me?" so wonderful. Everyone is great on the show, but I've always really enjoyed Michael Emerson. The character of Ben Linus could've been way too over the top or too sinister, but I have had many, many emotions about Ben over the years and they are never the same from episode to episode.

I think there is something to the characters that have truly take a 360 in the series. Not counting Flocke, because he's not John Locke anymore. I am thinking more about Ben, who went from confident to scared shitless to completely insecure to maybe even happy and accepted(?). And Sawyer. Wow. He's not even the same character from the series premiere. I can't wait to see his sideways story.

Maybe it does come down to who Jacob touched. Did Jacob touch Sayid? Did he touch Kate? Maybe it is about what you choose to do after Jacob touches you. He told Kate to be good, but Kate wasn't good. What did he tell Sayid? I can't remember. Did Jacob ever touch Ben?

Why did Jacob want to kill the Dharma Iniative? Remember when Richard reaches out to young Ben and the older Ben gasses the whole place? That was obviously done in the name of Jacob.

Who is Ilana?

I love Lost. Any other series would start wrapping up it mysteries, but Lost is doing it so slowly and raising even more questions on a weekly basis. That last episode is bound to be the best thing ever!

PS. Does anyone think Claire is hot right now? This is a debate going on within the LC Lost contingent.

Drinking Can Be A Cure...

2010-03-08T17:35:00.001-05:00

...to problems. You just drink so much you forget who you are. Problem solved.

I'd like to forget who I am right now.

One of Those Nights/This's and That's

2010-03-01T21:49:00.003-05:00

Uh, I have spilled my pop all over and I sent an email to a student explaining her grade and suggesting she withdraw from the class, except I got her points confused with another students and had to email her back explaining the mistake. Uh, I am having a hard time adjusting to online teaching, but the mistake I made tonight could've been made in a face-to-face class, I guess.

I hope this ends when I go to sleep and there is no residual things going wrong tomorrow morning.

Been watching Deadwood and I am really liking it. It makes me want to say cocksucker - a lot.

I gained a lot of weight at the end of last year and beginning of this year. I am finally starting to lose it.

The weather is starting to turn for the better here in the LC. I've been riding my bike again. Hopefully I'll get a few weeks of ride time before the windy season starts.

Lost has been simply amazing, but needs a post all its own, so that is all I am going to say about that right now.

A lot of people are sick around here and I am doing all I can to avoid it.

I have decided that spring semesters are the worst. I'm not even involved in half as much as I was last year, but I feel busy all the time. I never really catch up. I just get one thing finished before I have to start another.

I wish I had more exciting things to talk about, but my life seems consumed with school.

Alright, enough talking to talk. I'll be back later with more to say. I promise.

Cocksucker.

Love Living in New Mexico

2010-01-24T12:16:00.002-05:00

Last night was the kind of night that makes me love living in New Mexico and makes me never want to leave. It was the kind of night that really exemplified that laid back nature of this town and how people who look completely different and, well, are completely different, can be in a room together for the same reason and have a good time.

A friend of mine has a band that played a small after hours show in a record shop (or a head shop, depending on who you ask :)) It was good music - country, Texas blues and there were about 20 people there listening and tapping their toes, some were playing Foosball.

I guess I just feel lucky that in addition to a great school community, I have found a really cool community outside of school. They're all really interesting and cool people and I learn a lot from them on a regular basis - just as much as those I go to school with. Las Cruces is a great town to just hang out in. (which some people find boring about the LC and sometimes I do to, but it's the hanging out that can be fun!).

Anyhoo, school started and I already have a ton of work to do. But I'll be in Albuquerque in a few weeks for the Pop Culture conference. I am excited to see friends and presentation (although not excited to do my own presentation) and go to Trader Joe's and stock up!

Another Semester Down

2009-12-17T10:52:00.002-05:00

I only have five to seven more semesters until I get my PhD. I feel like I am making a lot of headway, but at the same time feel as though there is so much more to go. Oh well, whatever, it hasn't killed me yet. I will make it.

This semester was surprisingly doable. I didn't cry until the last week of actual classes. And that's just because a girl I have classes with (who I think is the devil) made me feel stupid. I hate her, but I only have one more semester to deal with her. Yay!

Today I head back to MI for a few weeks. I am looking forward to it and not looking forward to it. Families are complicated and mine is the same. I like living in New Mexico because I don't have to deal with family drama. That probably makes me a bad person, but whatever. I like feeling good and I don't need anyone (including my family) making me feel bad. I feel bad enough without them some days.

I always take my camera, but I never really take pictures. It seems like a waste of space in my bag, but I can't not take it. Something really picture-worthy might happen. Something like snow and ice and me having to stay inside all day.

Alright, enough blogging. I have to finish packing and eat some breakfast. One can never have enough coffee on a travel day.

I'm a Bad Environmentalist

2009-11-25T11:57:00.002-05:00

Well, I suppose I could be a lot worse. In fact, I am probably better than most people. But I have slipped up quite a bit.

Las Cruces doesn't recycle glass, so when I moved here I decided that in my own home where I have control, I wouldn't drink beer from a bottle or drink wine occasionally. I drink beer and wine from bottles a lot. If I was a super awesome person, I would drink beer only from the local brewery where I could take in my jugs to be refilled and drink wine from a box.

I still haven't set up a compost. How long have I been talking about this? For years now? This summer I even found one that didn't need worms, but I still haven't done it. And I continue to throw waste in the trash that could be used for something better.

I keep a resuable coffee mug on my desk, but lately, if I am close to the coffee place, I just go and get it in a cup, just because because I am too lazy to walk, in total, five minutes out of my way. (But I did just put a reusable mug in my car for when I get a coffee urge).

I've been buying my own books (the fun kind) and have stopped going to the library for them.

I've been reckless with sandwich bags. Mine are just filling the landfills.

I feel like there is so much more I can do - especially in terms of the little stuff that can be done on a daily basis, but I let my lazy nature get in the way. I mean, I don't want to change my whole life right now, but I am going to try and be more mindful - practice what I preach. It makes me feel better and less guilty.

But enough about that...everyone have a great Thanksgiving. Eat lots of food and don't let your leftovers go to waste.

In Light of my Last Post

2009-11-10T14:06:00.002-05:00

I still have questions and fears...but I just got an email asking if the department could use my qualifying portfolio as an example for new graduate students who have to do a qualifying portfolio this year. This makes me feel good. It's like last year when one of the professors asked me to email a perspective student. They don't ask everyone.

Now if only my papers for the end of the semester would write themselves and be brilliant.

Being in graduate school is like having schizophrenia. Who will I be tomorrow? A confident student, or a fearful one? What will I think tomorrow? That I don't know if I can do it, or that I can totally rock the shit out of it?

I'm ready for Christmas break.

PhD Student

2009-10-30T13:36:00.002-04:00

I have been thinking a lot about being a PhD student and how my future will be shaped by this. I wonder if I work as hard as other students. I work hard, but I wonder if I lack the passion that some of my fellow students seem to convey.

I wonder if I am thinking enough about my future. What I am doing here and now will effect the job I have someday. Conference presentations, check. Publications? Not so much. In a writing group I was a part of last semester they would always ask if I was going to try and publish what I was bringing in, because if I was, what I was bringing in wasn't cutting it. I am just getting my head around writing in a new voice...I read journal articles, but I don't know if I know how to write in a publishable way...can that be taught? Or will I someday just get it? It has to be someday soon, my job literally depends on it.

I don't wonder if my research interests are relevant, but I do wonder if I can pull it off. I think I am great at big ideas...execution, not so much.

I wonder if I don't take enough initiative.

I wonder if I am not seeing what other people see and if sometimes this is a problem.

I wonder if I am a good teacher when I get so annoyed with my students. Students don't change, they are always going to annoy me, and I wonder if I will ever find a way to get past that get them to learn. Basically, I'm wondering if it is their ability to learn or if it is my ability to teach.

I still have over a semester before coursework is over and I focus on my comprehensive exams. I feel like that is a turning point and I should be more aware of what I have to do, prove, accomplish.

I'm not questioning the decision I made in getting a PhD. I don't know what I am questioning, I just seem to have a lot of questions with some very unsure answers.

Getting Older

2009-10-22T14:00:00.002-04:00

30 came and went, so did 31, and although I realized I was getting older, 32 hit me like a ton of bricks.

Perhaps it was because there were elderly reminders all day long. In one class we talked about how as we age, how we see color changes and how we taste changes (apparently old people over-salt and sugar their food because they can't taste as well). I saw a woman wearing an oxygen tank. I saw a woman using a walker. These hit close to home because I have a sweet tooth and a history of diabetes in my family. I also am a smoker. I also have parents that have had knees and hips replaced.

I'm scared.

Not of really getting older, obviously I've always known this is going to happen. And everything I mentioned above most likely won't affect too much for another 25-30 years. But I am definitely at an age where I have to take these issues into consideration. I need to start eating better (which I literally have been doing since Tuesday - lots of vegetables and non-processed foods). I should quit smoking (but I like to smoke...even when I didn't smoke that much, I enjoyed it. I think I will start cutting back). I should just overall take better care of my body. I do exercise regularly. I am not the worst eater in the world (I have bad days and moments where I overindulge). But I don't want to be a woman who is in bad health early in her aging process. My mother was/is like this and it sucks to see a relatively young, older woman have the issues of a much older woman.

I also don't want to turn gray, get wrinkles and sag, although this is all happening anyway. But I can help that...hair dye, Preparation H, weight training. Ahh!

Basically, I know the old adage is you're only as young as you feel, and on the inside, I feel young. But this is the year that it hit me; I'm not technically as young as I feel.

And it sucks.

Mid Semester Reflection

2009-10-15T17:14:00.002-04:00

Here is the weird thing about this semester: I haven't felt the need to cry uncontrollably...yet. I teared up a couple of times...once was during a ridiculously bad day where EVERYTHING went wrong (but not school related) and once was last week when I felt overwhelmed by Modern Rhetorical Theory (the name alone is overwhelming). This time last year and even in the spring semester, I would sob at the drop of a hat.

Not that I don't feel overwhelmed; there is always work to be done. And not that I don't feel stupid; I still feel like a fraud occasionally.

Maybe it's because I feel like I finally get it. After a year, I am finally equipped with the language and ideas and the rules and these have helped me exist and float in this world. I also know that some people are assholes and that's ok too.

The semester's not over and there is still the bulk of work to be done, so there is still time for tears, but knock on wood...this hasn't been a bad semester.

PS. If you're in the Las Cruces area - the Recession Free Session is this Saturday. 4-12. Music, poetry. Free for the community. Corner of University and Espina. Come for fun!

!

2009-10-07T12:35:00.002-04:00

Welcome to the internet where everyone in the world (including those you know) think it's ok to criticize everything you are and say from the safety of their computer.

Recession Free Session

2009-10-02T12:48:00.003-04:00

Laura asked to see the poster I recently designed so here it is:

If you're in Las Cruces then, stop by. Should be a good time!

Breaks and Moving Forward

2009-09-23T10:33:00.002-04:00

I am currently taking a break from exercise. I probably shouldn't because I have gained weight and am having a hard time working it off...but I think that is why I am taking a break. It's frustrating to exercise a lot and maybe a have bad eating moments a week, but nothing seems to happen. I won't stop working out all together, I will go back, but this week, I just don't want to.

I am also trying to stay on top of homework because I have a very busy next four weekends or so.

This weekend is the Whole Enchilada Fiesta. They make the world's largest enchilada...it's gross and weird, but Los Lobos is playing. I hope they play "La Bamba."

Next weekend is the Southern New Mexico State Fair. It's supposedly weird and fascinating, so I have to go. Also, an old friend of mine is coming into town for a job interview.

Ok, so the next weekend, might not have anything going on, but that will allow me a break to get some homework done.

The weekend after the nothing to do weekend is the Recession Free Session. It's a free concert for the community that a friend of mine is putting together. I am designing the posters. It should be a good time.

(in the middle of all of this is my birthday)

The final weekend I have something planned is Homecoming, in which a large group of people I went to college with are coming back and having a reunion. I am so psyched about this - alot of these people I haven't seen in nearly 10 years. It'll be a busy weekend because school-wise, there is a also a speaker series going on in my department and I'll have to go and do that as well.

And of course do homework and grade and everything else that goes in a life.

I'm tired just thinking about it.

And excited!

Bad Teacher? Bad Day

2009-09-08T13:34:00.003-04:00

I didn't really prepare as well as I should have for class today. It went ok; my students actually contributed to the conversation, but I felt it...I felt underprepared and like I let my students down.

I'm not a bad teacher though, right? Just had an off day...learn from my mistakes...

Or am I just trying to justify how much I suck?

You all have permission to be honest.

Big City Living

2009-09-06T20:34:00.002-04:00

Went to Albuquerque yesterday to go see Ween. It was a very urban experience. I rode in a taxi, I had many choices of places to eat, I was able to walk from the venue to a really cool bar and I hung out with cool people...granted they are the people I would hang out with if I was in Las Cruces on a regular Saturday night, but they're my friends, I like them and think they are cool.

I drank too much, but I knew that I would.

Now my long weekend is almost over. I still have work to do tomorrow. And grocery shopping. And then the week begins all over again and I will be looking forward to the next weekend. But first, some pizza and Mad Men.

Summer is Done

2009-08-30T17:04:00.006-04:00

Well summer isn't really done...not technically. But it feels like it when I can't have as much fun as I did during the summer. Homework and lesson planning takes up a lot of time.

I haven't made any snap judgements about my classes yet. Well, no snap judgements about Modern Rhetorical Theory and Cultural Criticism, but I know my Document Design class is going to rock the casbah.

The tech writing class I am teaching feels to be off to a slow start, but this week we get into actual activities and assignments so hopefully it will get better.

Good to see some people after a summer away. Emphasis on some...

Per Murph - pictures from my trip to Oklahoma:

Here's a few of me being a bad-ass.

Ok, so this is a blurry one of Murph and K - but just know that Yahtzee was happening.

This is a tombstone from the Showman's section of a cemetery in Hugo, OK. Lots of people who performed in the circus are buried there and have some really elaborate stones. It was cool to see and a little sad. But mostly cool.

Summer is Coming to An End

2009-08-06T11:40:00.003-04:00

Today is my last day working in the Writing Center. Then I have a little me time. Next week I head to Oklahoma to swim and shoot some guns with Murph and K. I return next Thursday and immediately the next day I have to attend a meeting and move cubicles. Then some in-service the following Monday and then school starts that Thursday. Which is two weeks from today. Damn.

Where did the summer go?

I do have a pretty solid draft of a syllabus and schedule (for six weeks) for my tech writing class. I am excited and nervous. I know the suck rate rises when you teach a class for the first time, but hopefully it won't suck too much and at the end of the semester I'll have learned just as much as my students.

And hopefully they don't a pull a mutiny on me, which is my greatest fear in teaching.

I'm in Mad Men!

2009-07-27T12:01:00.002-04:00

I imagine this is the beginning of my torrid affair with Don Draper.

Get Outta Here...

2009-07-20T14:11:00.002-04:00

...that is what you are going to tell me when I describe the soup I made last night. It is called African Chickpea and Spinach Soup. Now, if you click on the link and see the ingredients, you might be a little weirded out. Peanut butter blended with vegetable broth? Gross, right? Wrong. That mixture makes this soup the best thing ever. Delicious, delicious, delicious.

Another thing that I felt was blog-worthy today was the Safari 4. I started using Firefox a few months ago because everyone said it was awesome and the only web browser worth using. I actually hated Firefox when I first started using it. I grew slightly more fond of it, but only slightly, and I think that is really because I just got used to it.

But the new Safari is SWEET. I will never turn my back on it again.

Oh and I watched The Pirates of Silicone Valley. It is about the early days of Steve Jobs and Bill Gates. It was pretty interesting. They made Steve Jobs look like a real dick, but from everything I understand, he kind of is. They made Bill Gates seem exactly how I would imagine him. Anyhoo, all you computer fans might want to check it out if you haven't already.

I don't know about you all, but all this blogging is exhausting me.

Pictures!

2009-07-14T14:37:00.007-04:00

As promised, pictures of the boys...

Here is Liam

Logan

Liam, very close the camera

Jack on the trampoline

Logan and Jack in the pool

Logan and Jack watching Weird Al videos

Wow, I Haven't Blogged This Much Since April

2009-07-08T12:56:00.002-04:00

Back to the old grindstone, but it seems new too. I've been working my internship, which hasn't been very busy yet. I may work on a grant. I am working in the games lab helping participants navigate through games and help them with game concept ideas. It's cool. Yesterday I did DDR and Wii boxed. This morning I did a little Jillian Michael fitness. My arms are going to be sore from it. And I get lunch. So it is pretty awesome.

The grant I am writing isn't due until September, so I won't be following through with it. I am afraid they aren't going to like that, but I have to get back to school and teaching. That is my first priority.

The second job is in the Writing Center. It should be fairly laid-back.

It's hard to believe that I've only been home a few days, it already feels as though I have never left.

Next time I blog, I'll update with some pictures of my nephews. They are as awesome as ever.

Happy 5th of July

2009-07-05T09:11:00.005-04:00

Wow, I am the suckiest blogger now. I am averaging a post per month. That's pretty weak. I should make an Independence Day resolution to be a better blogger. But then again, I think resolutions are problematic and actually make people less likely to do things. I'm at a loss as to what to do here.

California and Computers and Writing was awesome. It was fun to see old friends and hang out with new friends I haven't gotten to know as well outside of school. At first I was nervous that I wasn't going to be discussing anything new or cutting edge, but I quickly realized, everyone was talking about the same thing, just calling it something different. I saw people I actually read and cite in my papers. And then, when it was all said and done, I went to the Winchester Mystery House with Robin and Kaleb. It was awesome. San Jose was pretty awesome.

For the last two weeks I've been in MI. I actually leave today. It's been nice, a lot nicer than my trip at Christmas. I saw my nephews who were hilarious as always. I saw my friend Molly who is about to give birth to a boy in about 4 weeks. She asked me what I missed about MI and OH and I did manage to come up with a few things:
1. Panera. We don't have any in NM and I really miss the Mediterranean Veggie Sandwich
2. Good sushi. Well, I actually haven't had sushi in Las Cruces. There are sushi restaurants, but I don't know...it's the desert, where are they getting the fish? I did break down in Albuquerque and eat some, but it was the big city. Anyhoo, I had some sushi here and it was delicious.
3. My gym. I loved, loved, loved my gym. It was so clean and always had a machine open and everyone was friendly. My gym in Las Cruces gets the job done and it is fairly clean the people are friendly, it's just not the same.
4. My dr. She was very nice and the appointments were quick and she always was very encouraging about my weight loss.
5. Sunday Morning - the show, not the actual morning. It's on in Las Cruces, but at 7 am and I am never up at 7 on Sunday to watch it.

I may miss these things, but sunny, warm weather all year round and beauiful mountain scenery and a laid back atmosphere make up for this all.

Oh, and I read alot. I finished:
> Pigs in Heaven
> March

And I read from. start to finish:
> My Antonia
> Let the Northern Lights Erase Your Name

I have Then We Came to the End for the plane ride home.

Well, the next time you hear from me, I'll be back in the desert. Hopefully I'll remember to blog and it won't take too long. Until then...

Been a Long Time I Know

2009-06-17T10:37:00.002-04:00

Yes, I've totally ignored this blog, but not on purpose. Life is some sort of busy right now. I only have time for 140 characters or so I guess...

I've been working 40 hours a week (or so, haha) and still trying to enjoy my summer and still try to exercise. And tomorrow I head to sunny CA for a conference that I am still only about half prepared for. I am not going to be able to go out and have any fun tomorrow night...I will have to stay in my motel room and finish my PowerPoint presentation. Oh well, it'll all get done...it has to.

On Monday I fly from Sacramento to Detroit to see mi familia. I am looking forward to that because I am not going to do anything for two weeks but read and watch television and movies and shop (because my mom will buy me clothes...YAY!) and I am going to exercise. Maybe this will be the vacation that I lose a little weight.

The books I am taking with me to read:
Pigs in Heaven
March
My Antonia

Anyhoo, just wanted to drop in and let you know I haven't fallen off the face of the earth. But you all probably guessed that anyway. Hope you all are having a great summer.

Ok, Now I Should Figure Out a Routine

2009-05-26T09:44:00.003-04:00

I had an unexpectedly fun Memorial Day weekend. My friend Justin came into town and we went golfing and to the Wine Fest and to Chopes. It was a really good time. Just like old times; somethings don't change...even when you kind of want them to.

It's interesting how friends can be like family. People revert back to the roles they have in friendships, even if they haven't been in those roles in years. I find myself always in the role of the baby of my family and I fulfill a certain role with my oldest friends, although I don't know what the name of it is. And I don't really have that same role in my life now, so it is weird.

Anyhoo, today is the day I am going to start to get busy. I took a week off of exercise, so I gotta get back to that. I need to write some papers for Computers and Writing. I am not going anywhere for a month, so I have a month to get stuff done. Yay me.

Summer Job

2009-05-18T10:16:00.002-04:00

So yeah, I have a summer job. Two actually. The bigger one has me working at the College of Agriculture working on a grant and whatever else needs writing. I've never written a grant before, so this is pretty exciting. I may also get some class credit for doing it. Or internship...whatever happens to work out. And if everything goes well, I could have this summer job, every summer.

The one downside is that it is full-time - 40 hours a week. I was kind of looking forward to some time off this summer. But now I am looking forward to an iPhone. I am going to get one in July when my current contract runs out and this job allows me to pay for that without worries. This job allows me to pay for everything without worries. Or eventually it will. University payroll systems suck. I have no idea when I will get paid.

It's been weird being out of school. I feel anxious over nothing. I probably feel anxious because I really have nothing to feel anxious about. A friend said that during the school year there is always so much drama that during the summer we probably have to create our own drama in our head. I hope I get over it.

Tomorrow I head to Phoenix to see Flight of the Conchords. Then when I get back, no effing around, I have to work on some conference papers. I also need to find flights to the conference and back to Michigan.

Ahh, summer time.

Summer is in Sight

2009-04-30T14:22:00.002-04:00

By this time next week, I'll be free of school...kinda...for a little while.

One class is done. One is practically done - I have a draft of a final paper and I have to meet with someone to workshop it, but the hard part, I am going to believe is over. This weekend I have to do a final project for my third class. It shouldn't be hard, just time-consuming.

Then of course, the grading of my students final reflective essays, but that's easy too and I have a whole week to get that done.

Then once school is done, I can take maybe a week off and then I have to write up some papers for Computers and Writing. One is pretty much done, but the other one needs to start, and before I can start, I need to have an idea.

The rest of my summer...well...I have learned to not make plans until summer is actually here. I was going to take a class and decided not to. I didn't think I was going to have a job, but now I apparently do. I was asked to work in the Writing Center for the second summer session. I am pretty excited about it; the center is only open limitedly and they asked me to do it.

So it looks as though my summer may be planned before it even starts. But at least it'll be less stressful.

Dirty Feet

2009-04-22T13:03:00.002-04:00

Yes, I have them. I have dirty feet all the time. I can spend as much time as I want in the shower washing them, SCRUBBING them actually, but as soon as I get out of the shower, they are dirty again.

The problem is that I live in the desert, which is dusty and dirty. Every surface out here is covered in dirt. I wear flip flops and they get covered in dirt. The other day I came home and even the tops of my feet were BLACK.

It's gross. I totally admit to that. But my choice is either dirty feet or cold feet in the snow.

I take dirty feet.

Feeling Guilty

2009-04-20T10:19:00.002-04:00

I feel guilty all the time. Why, you ask? I feel like I never do enough work, like no matter how much I work, I could always do more.

This weekend for example. Friday, I ended up having to go to campus to get some paperwork for the Computers and Writing Conference signed. So I was there for a while. While I waited I got a letter written about working in the Design Center instead of the Writing Center. After I got home I got reading done and started a final paper...got about 3 pages written.

Saturday I was a little hung over from Friday night and was having lunch with Jen, and then I decided to work out and by the time that was done, it was pretty much ready for me to go to my friend Patti's for dinner. Short story, long...I didn't do any work on Saturday.

On Sunday I finished a draft of my online portfolio, revised the letter for the Design Center, did some reading and research for a paper. But I still feel like I should've done more and still feel a little bad that I didn't do anything on Saturday.

Deep down, I know I get a lot of stuff done and a day of not doing anything isn't the worst thing in the world, but I always feel so bad. I wish I could work past this. I'll have to put it on one of my lists of things to get done.

Check it...

2009-04-14T17:41:00.001-04:00

I created my own ice cream flavor

You can do it to here

Uh-Uh-Uh

2009-04-08T09:52:00.002-04:00

I've been experiencing some l'esprit d'escalier lately. I've been throwing up some words that make little sense and then later think of a much better comeback. It's not a hostile situation or anything; I actually really, really like this person who keeps teasing me. It's just, I which I could think on my feet and be really witty right away...not later as I am laying in bed trying to go to sleep.

Sleep, which has been alluding me a little this week. I think I am slightly stressed about all the things that have to be done in the next couple of weeks. I feel pretty on top of things, but maybe my lack of sleep is telling me that I am not and I should devote more time to work.

I don't know...I can only work so much in a day.

55 mph winds today. Please keep your fingers crossed that I don't blow away.

Nearing the End

2009-04-05T11:21:00.002-04:00

I am in a weird place right now. I have a ton of work to do, but none of it needs to been done immediately. So working a little bit on the big stuff doesn't seem like I've been really working, but I have. I've written two pages of a 15-18 page paper due during finals week and I started my template for my online portfolio. Could probably be doing more, but a little bit is better than nothing.

I'm just going to keep telling myself that to feel better.

I've been eating like a crazy person. Today I am going to try to detox from shit food by making and then eating Tabouli. About the only thing saving my ass is the fact that I've been back to exercising nearly every day.

Well, I am off to read about online pedagogy.

I Know Why People Don't Want to Go to the Dr.

2009-03-26T12:07:00.002-04:00

Miserable from a sinus infection, I went to the Dr. today to get some antibiotics so I can kick this thing.

I was told I drink too much and was then reminded that I am fat.

I am livid. I am not deluded and think I am skinny, I know I need to lose weight. But they don't ever ask questions that lead them to find out that I have actually lost around 50 lbs in the past few years, that I exercise 3-4 times a week (way more than the average person), I drink a ton of water, and while I don't eat well all the time, I try to eat the right things. But I'm fat, so of course they assume I don't do these things. I could've told them I wear a smaller jean size than the average woman.

And I do drink a little too much. But I drink less than A LOT of people I know. Besides, I answered their questions honestly. People probably drink more, but lie about it.

So I can see why people don't want to go the dr. A simple visit turns into a rundown of everything that is wrong with a person. This actually makes me want to eat and drink right now.

I want to tell you about the Grand Canyon, but I am too pissed right now. Just know that everything I saw was grand, amazing and looked fake because it was so beautiful. If you haven't been, I suggest that you go, but don't get too close to the edge...people do fall to their deaths that way.

Hope you all had a better start to your day than I did.

You Can Always Rely on Post Secret

2009-03-15T12:24:00.005-04:00

This week there was a small graduate school theme.

This one is not very me. I think adding uppers to theory would make me crazy.

This one I do get. I feel incompetent all the time now.

Semester

2009-03-09T23:19:00.002-04:00

This semester is turning into quite possibly, the longest semester ever. It feels like we are in week 17, rather than nine. Thankfully spring break is right around the corner, although once it is done, I will have even more work than I could ever imagine.

Speaking of spring break, I am heading to the Grand Canyon. I have never been before so I am psyched. I am sure it is going to be the most beautiful thing I have ever seen. I will make sure to take a bunch of pictures so you can live the experience through me.

Don't say I never did anything for ya

Tomorrow night I am going to hear Salman Rushdie speak. I really have no expectations about it, but the little I know about Rushie, it's bound to be interesting.

My Love for Will Ferrell Never Fades...

2009-03-04T10:14:00.000-05:00

BAT FIGHT with Will Ferrell from Will Ferrell

Today

2009-03-03T16:54:00.001-05:00

Was the first great class I taught of the semester. It reminded me of why I liked teaching in the first place. Just remind of this moment when I go back to complaining about what jerks they are.

Pop Culture Conference

2009-03-01T20:22:00.003-05:00

I want to give you all so many details about the conference, but I am feeling like a shit, and overloaded with annotated bibliography stuff, so my memories are blurry.

I know I did present a paper and I was told it went well. I was just happy to get it over with and not make a total ass out of myself.

I had a great time with Murph and Co. I drank way too much, but I wanted to, so it was worth it.

I saw some really great panels. A good one about Mad Men, a great one about teaching with Web 2.o, a great one about Twitter, an interesting one where I might find some interesting research possibilities to apply to new media.

I got to go to a Borders and a Trader Joe.

I went to Old Towne and the botanical gardens in order to feel touristy.

But I ended up sick. Actually it started the morning I left, but I must have willed myself through it because as soon as I got home I felt like I wanted to die.

Today, I feel a little less like dying. So it's all good I guess.

I am going to finish the Twilight series tonight. I don't know...I liked the first book, but these last two have been trying my patience. I am not happy that these books are teaching girls to be weak and stupid and that men will fall all over for them.

Until next time...

Celebrity Super Bowl

2009-02-21T17:03:00.003-05:00

As many of you know, I am an awards show junkie. Tomorrow is the creme de la creme of award shows...the Academy Awards aka the Oscars. I love watching the Oscars. I love it when there are surprises, but then I get mad when people I hate (i.e. George Clooney) wins.

This year there is a small snag though. I haven't really seen any of the movies and well, I just don't care who wins or loses.

But I do love me some Hugh Jackman, who is hosting, and it's would feel weird to know the show is on, but not watch it. I think it'll still be good.

I'll twitter as the festivities go on, in case you need any updates.

Facebook

2009-02-17T14:28:00.002-05:00

I love Facebook. I really do.

But sometimes I get requests from people that I went to high school with and I have no recollection of them. Sometimes I think they got married and have a new last name and if I saw a picture I would remember them. Nope, that is not always the case. I literally can't remember them. But I friend them anyway out of guilt.

And recently someone I know on Facebook used their status update as a place to help their children sell cookies or whatever. I thought, "Wow, I can't even come to Facebook without dealing with that." Our online spaces are giving our face-to-face spaces a run for their money.

Glad It's Thursday, Will Like Tomorrow Better

2009-02-12T16:58:00.002-05:00

I am tired and a little hungover. I don't know why, I didn't drink that much last night. Maybe it's dealing with students. I kicked one of them out today for texting. The policy is in my syllabus.

Uh ... students.

So, Lost is on fire this season. Not one bad episode. I love the heartwarming reunion between Jin and Sawyer last night. I ALWAYS love it when Ben freaks out. It makes me so happy. I was surprised to see Charlotte die so quickly. I wasn't sad though. She managed to squeak out some good information in her final moments. But there goes my theory on Faraday being her father. I guess my new theory is that Ben is her father. But really, now that she's dead, does it really matter?

Who I really want to learn about is Miles. I think he is the guy from Dharma Iniative's videos son. Sometimes I think I am grasping at straws when I think about Lost. But I can't stop. What am I going to do when the show is over?

Everyone's been having crazy weather this week. Murph ... did you see a tornado? Laura and PTT... did you have some warm weather? We had really cold weather, for here anyway. And the windy season has started. I can't ride my bike when it is really windy. Someone I know saw a girl get literally blown off her bike the other day. I don't want that to be me. I am older now and my body doesn't heal like it used to.

Hence my hangover today.

Blah.

My Apologies

2009-02-06T15:12:00.002-05:00

For being a sucky blogger at the moment. I am crazy busy right now. But I thought I would share a few things about what's going on...

I am totally digging Lost this season. It has been awesome. I knew Jin wasn't dead, but it never occurred to me that, of course, we would see Danielle again.

Speaking of Lost, I am in the process of writing my paper for Pop Culture conference. It feels as though it is going slow.

Speaking of writing papers, I also have to revise my qualifying portfolio.

Last night I had flipping awesome green chile cheeseburger.

Later today I am going to eat a chicken fajita burrito.

I loved the movie Man on Wire. It is a documentary about the guy who walked a tightrope between the twin towers. I can't say enough about it. You can watch it on Netflix. It is available to watch instantly.

And I don't understand why people on Post Secret want to hate on New Mexico. They should just leave. We all hate them anyway.

Ciao Bellas and Bellos!

Oh No

2009-01-26T20:18:00.000-05:00

I just noticed my first defined wrinkle.

Someone Wants to Leave!?!?

2009-01-25T12:39:00.004-05:00

I saw this on Post Secret today.

I wanted to come back, hard to believe there are those who want to leave.

Lost is Back

2009-01-22T18:35:00.003-05:00

I kind of don't even know where to start about Lost. So much happened in those two hours.

Basically I have decided I trust no one off the island. I obviously don't trust Ben, but I am not trusting Jack so much. I don't trust Cheech. And I really don't trust Sun. I am 98% sure she is up to something.

I was sad when Sawyer found a shirt to wear. And I am pretty sure he is going to hooking up with Juliet soon (I do trust Juliet now. For many seasons I didn't, but I do now).

When Richard told Locke that he had to die to save the island or his people (I can't remember), it made me wonder if Locke is really dead forever. Half the scene where Jack and Ben were in the funeral home, I half expected him to open his eyes.

Oh wait, I don't trust someone on the island...Faraday. Why is he not trying to help Charlotte? And is it important to us that she remembers her mother's maiden name?

How does Richard know where the island is traveling in time?

When Faraday told Desmond to find his mother, I thought it was going to be Mrs. Hawking, but then she showed up at the end. She might still be though.

I loved Ben's honest fear in that end scene.

I loved Hurley's wicked smile at Ben after he was arrested. But didn't Ana Lucia tell him NOT to get arrested?

I kind of enjoyed seeing dead characters like Ana Lucia and Ethan, but I hope they don't having a parade of former stars every week.

Basically Lost did what is always does...gives me more questions that I will never be able to answer on my own. I am totally looking forward to next week.

It's (Finally) Time to Get Lost

2009-01-21T14:07:00.002-05:00

Happy Days! Lost is back again.

At first I thought I wasn't going to be able to watch Lost on Lost night. I work at the Writing Center until 7 and I thought it started at 7. Turns out, tonight an hour recap episode is on at 7 and the TWO HOUR episode starts at 8, which it will continue to do for the rest of the season. Hooray!

I will be turning my phone off this evening, so please, don't try to contact me.

I am hoping actually watching an episode will get me in the mood to write my presentation for the Pop Culture Conference.

PS. I know I said I would come back and show some photos of my nephews from Christmas...and I will, but I feel as though Lost deserves and post all its own.

Nose Back to the Grind

2009-01-13T17:30:00.002-05:00

School starts tomorrow. I've managed to do the tiniest bit of preparation...just enough to get me though the first day.

I finally unpacked my suitcase.

I bought a notebook (unlike last semester).

Oh and I got a crockpot. It's pretty awesome. If anyone has some delicious crockpot recipes, they should forward them my way.

Next posting I will get around to posting pictures of the boys. Logan and I watched the following clip of the Peanuts gang dancing to "Hey Ya," and thought it was awesome. So enjoy.

Only a Few More Days...

2009-01-04T22:22:00.002-05:00

...to deal with the cold

...to be completely lazy

...to sleep in a single bed (I miss a big bed)

...to be away from most of my friends

...to not exercise regularly and hard enough (I am tired of these extra holiday pounds)

In other news, I think I am going to get that new Wally Lamb book to read on the trip home. And my new favorite song is the Madcom remix of "Beggin." It rocks.

I will return with more posts from the desert.

Happy New Years

2008-12-31T11:33:00.002-05:00

Last night I watched, Surfwise, a really great documentary about a family of surfers who all lived together in a 24 foot trailer. Watching that, combined with staying with my family the last couple of weeks, made me dream that I moved back in with my parents and it was awful. I think I would rather live in a box (in a warm place of course) than move back in with my family.

But you should check out the documentary if you get a chance.

I have no resolutions for the new year. I never do because I personally feel like all new year's resolutions are bound to fail. Too much expectation.

But I do hope that all of you have a happy and safe new years eve. We'll talk again in 2009.

A Little Bit of the Dark Side of Christmas

2008-12-21T17:29:00.000-05:00

Did you know that Santa has a sidekick? He goes with him on Christmas and whips child who have misbehaved.

His name is Krampus - The Christmas Devil

So go ahead everyone, scare all the children you know. It's officially within the limits of Christmas Spirit.

Baby It's Cold Outside

2008-12-18T23:30:00.002-05:00

I am back in MI for the holidays. It is cold. And wet. I had to get boots, my feet are having a hard time handling the weather. And of course because tomorrow I was supposed to head to BG for fun, it is supposed to have freezing rain. So unfair I say.

It's been nice seeing the family again. I'll see the boys this weekend.

A student of mine who got a C emailed me for the final percentage. It certainly wasn't a 79.5% which of course I would've bumped up to a B. I am not a monster.

I know I already posted the following on Facebook, but I want to spread Flight of the Conchords everywhere. Think of it as an early Christmas present or an enticement to treat yourself with season 1. It is such an awesome show.

Season 2 Online Premiere - Flight of the Conchords (US Only) - watch more funny videos

Home For the Holidays

2008-12-15T17:24:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow I head back to Michigan for Christmas. It'll be a long day of travel. In order to get a ride to the airport, I have to leave here at 7 am, even though my flight isn't until almost 11. And then if all goes well, I'll arrive in Detroit at 8:50 pm.

I'll be twittering; you can follow my progress here or right here on my blog.

Talk to you again from the cold.

I Love Peyton Manning!

2008-12-10T23:18:00.001-05:00

New Pet Peeve

2008-12-10T14:29:00.002-05:00

I cannot stand it when people wear jeans to the gym. I know it is a small and petty thing to hate, but I do. So there.

In about 5 hours I will be all done being a student for the semester. I'll still have to be a teacher until I finish grading. Hopefully I can get that done tomorrow.

I am also less than a week from being back in Michigan. It's been cold here (yesterday it never got above 45 degrees), so it must be getting me ready for that.

Just to Keep Myself from Doing Real Work

2008-12-08T10:58:00.005-05:00

You can make your own here

Mall Parking Lots...

2008-12-05T13:34:00.002-05:00

...are one of the most dangerous places. There is no order. It's a dog eat dog world, especially during the holiday season. Today I was almost run over by two old ladies in their big cars.

I guess the lesson here is to put your defensive gear when you go to the mall.

My semester is technically done. Finals week is next week. I still have to finish my teaching philosophy (which is harder than I thought it was going to be) and a research paper. Oh, and I have to grade 24 reflective essays next week. I can't believe my first semester of grad school is almost done. I can't believe that I go home for Christmas in 11 days. Time went by so fast. Someone mentioned the other day that he felt as though the time moved fast because we've been in an almost never ending summer. That might be true.

I don't look forward to the snow.

Santa's So High Tech

2008-12-03T22:39:00.003-05:00

Santa's In Box

(via Evan Williams twitter)

Uh

2008-12-03T10:39:00.002-05:00

I managed to go all semester without getting sick, but here I am, the last two days and I have a cold. A nasty, gross one that is really snotty and coughy. I am going to go to the writer's center for two hours (because I don't really care if I infect students. They probably are the ones that got me sick), and then I think I am going to miss two of my classes. The first classes I've missed all semester.

I feel kind of bad.

But I also feel like shit and would like to just lay on my couch.

A Whole Week Off

2008-11-30T12:12:00.003-05:00

And the strange thing is that I don't feel like I accomplished anything. Here it is, 10 am on the Sunday before I have to go back to school and I have two papers I need to majorly revise and 5 more papers left to grade. Oh well, it'll get done. Here is what did happen:

I got to see two old friends, Justin and Ryan. They were in town for Thanksgiving, so we hung out, drank, smoked, just like old times. I finally got to Chope's for the first time since I've been here. It was really great to see them. I haven't seen Ryan in four years.

I had an awesome Thanksgiving with my friend Patti and some of her family and friends. Someone brought mashed potatoes that were white and sweet potatoes mixed. They were delicious. Everything was delicious. We all played Yahtzee and drank beer.

I found out that I got into another conference, Computers and Writing. Not only did my individual proposal get in, but a panel I am a part of was accepted as well. I am feeling really good, almost like I am impressive.

I ate way too much. Not only did I overdo it with Thanksgiving and leftovers, but I ate out a lot this week and I BAKED. I did a pretty good job of exercising, but I just need to stop eating ... and drinking.

Well, it's time to get back to the grindstone. I think I can kick out one of my revisions within the hour.

Thanksgiving Break

2008-11-24T18:54:00.002-05:00

At NMSU, we get a whole week off for Thanksgiving. It's kind of weird and not really a break at all because I have a ton of work to do. But at least I don't have to go to school, although I probably will tomorrow. I might do a little more research on my game paper by going to the games lab. Yes, a graduate student's work is never done.

But I did take yesterday and today off from doing any work. I didn't really mean to per se, but I just decided to say, "Fuck it, I'll get it all done starting Tuesday."

Today I baked chocolate chip banana bread and some chocolate chip pumpkin cookies. They're delish!

I have a Twitter account now. I got my cell phone to work with it and everything so I am super excited. So check it out and see what piddly little things I have going on in my life. You know, a few years ago I would've never had all this stuff all over the internet, but now that I study it, I think it is really worthwhile. I mean, if I am going to talk, I need to walk right.

Oh...whoa....gots to go, Little People, Big World just came on and I have to find the remote to change the channel.

Sunday

2008-11-16T20:27:00.003-05:00

I really miss Mad Men on Sundays. It used to give me something to look forward to so I could get my homework done early. Now I just think, whatever. Now I am going to keep reading about interculturalism research in rhetoric and professional communication until I fall asleep. Actually, I take that back. I will stop before the night is over.

I missed Paul Rudd hosting SNL last night to go to an ok party. I enjoy hanging out with people, but I also really enjoy Paul Rudd.

And in case you haven't heard, Murph, this other guy I know and I got our Lost panel into the

Southwest Texas PCA/ACA conference. It is the first conference I have been accepted to, so I am really excited. It's close, and I'll get to see a dear friend. And blow people's minds.

The Blog is Dead

2008-11-12T10:11:00.002-05:00

I've been doing a lot of reading lately and apparently the blog is dead. People are moving towards Facebook and Twitter and blogs just aren't fast enough to keep people up. Blogs are archaic?

I would totally be on board with Twitter if I could get it to work with my cell phone. But I like my little blog. I've spent a lot of time here and I would feel like a traitor.

What do you all think? Is the blog dead? If not, should it be murdered?

January 21, 2009

2008-11-09T13:43:00.001-05:00

That's when Lost comes back.

A little more than 2 months away. I have goosebumps already.

The Next President

2008-11-05T15:38:00.002-05:00

It needs to be addressed, but it is hard to put into words. I am so excited that Obama won. I was overwhelmed last night with how much emotion I actually felt. I was overwhelmed by how so many Republican states voted Democrat (Go Ohio!). I think I could literally feel the change in the air last night.

Of course Obama's not going to be perfect. It's a complicated job. He's inheriting the country at the worst possible time. But hey, at least he's not George W. Bush (and that might possibly be one my of last Bush bashings).

Vivre L'Obama!

I'm Not Always the Safest Person

2008-11-03T17:36:00.001-05:00

On Friday, I was riding my bike to school and my phone vibrated which I meant I had a text message and I had to check it. It was a friend inviting me to lunch and I had to text her back about it.

All while riding my bike.

And listening to my iPod.

It's Official...

2008-10-31T21:51:00.002-04:00

...I'm a real life New Mexican now. I have the license plate to prove it. And a license. It was a very exciting day.

I am dressing up as Marge from Fargo. I watched it earlier for inspiration and it is such an awesome movie.

Hope everyone has a Happy Halloween!

Small Town Living as a Teacher

2008-10-30T21:23:00.002-04:00

There's this great store here called Toucans. It's kind of organic/gourmet grocery store. The best reason to go is for the 3 bottles of wine for $10 deal. You get $20 wines for super cheap. So, since it is Thursday, which is my Friday, I decided to stop by and pick some up.

I didn't know that a student of mine worked there and he totally saw me buying 3 bottles of wine. He didn't give me any shit though, but I can imagine him telling his classmates. But whatever...I'm human.

In other news, I voted today. It was exciting.

This Is Why I Love Living in New Mexico

2008-10-26T22:53:00.002-04:00

Because last night I went to a dive bar in the historical section of town (Billy the Kid was in jail down the street), to see a friend of mine play the banjo in a blue grass band. A woman came in with a ton of cool Obama buttons that her super-delegate friend sent her. She was giving them away.

Then, while outside smoking a cigarette, a group gathered down the block to watch a fire dancer. She had a hula hoop filled with flames and she circled them around her neck, her waist, her arms and her legs. It was awesome. And it would only happen here.

Then today I went on an awesome hike to the dripping springs.

Life is so different here. So wonderfully different.

A Work of Audio Art

2008-10-23T19:38:00.002-04:00

Here's the audio project I did for my multimedia class.

Can You Already Feel the Excitement?

2008-10-23T10:00:00.001-04:00

It's the Lost season preview!

Cool Stuff

2008-10-21T18:35:00.001-04:00

This is a cool flickr set for all us cool English people, via work/space.

BIrthdays

2008-10-20T00:11:00.001-04:00

Tomorrow I turn 31. Today I feel 81 because I celebrated way too much this weekend.

I think that tomorrow, I will start acting 31 and not 21.

I'm actually kind of glad that the weekend is over.

Avoiding Work

2008-10-11T18:32:00.002-04:00

I have a short article critique due Thursday and I am having a hard time getting to it. I have about a page and a quarter, but it just feels like I should have more done. Especially since I have known about it for weeks. Oh well, there is always tomorrow to get a kick ass draft together. That's not really procrastinating. Procrastinating would be writing this blog on Wednesday night.

I was very bad last night. I got drunk and smoked in my car. It felt so right when I was doing it, but I when I thought about it again this morning, I felt bad. So I vacuumed my car out to treat it. I also really need to wash it, but it rained today and it's dusty out here, so it'll just get dirty again.

Speaking of cars, I tried to register my car and get a NM drivers license yesterday. I was trying to become a real New Mexican. But I didn't have nearly enough paper work required, so while the process is started, I have to go back again.

I am glad there is still another day in the weekend, I didn't get enough done today.

I Wonder if Miidgets Creep Them Out Too

2008-10-05T11:21:00.003-04:00

Found this over at Post Secret this morning.

You know what I thought about the other day; I may have to teach a dwarve or midget someday.

Like a Peach

2008-10-02T11:40:00.001-04:00

I have four pretty, major bruises on my body.

I only know how I got one of them.

My New Life

2008-09-28T14:03:00.002-04:00

I find that I do a lot more work in coffee shops than I did in BG. In fact, I am writing this from a coffee shop. I think I just need to get out of my apartment sometimes. Also, my internet service is a little spotty, so I need to go where the internet is strong. This coffee shop is called International Delights. It is also a restaurant with a flippin delicious Mediterranean Veggie sandwich. I am going to be eating this today. I need some power food for hike later.

Yes, I am going hiking. I am also going to try snowboarding. It's weird that I have to move to the desert to learn to snowboard, but whatever, I'm flexible.

I went to a keg party the night of the debates. I am too old to be living the life I am currently.

But I feel like an adult when I am at the coffee shop doing work on my laptop.

Bleh

2008-09-23T18:21:00.002-04:00

I have a class. I should like it more. It's a seminar class. We talk. About stuff that I feel stupid about. When I do talk, I stumble over words and I feel stupid. I feel like everyone thinks I am stupid. I really worry that one person in particular thinks I am really stupid.

I suppose it's not that I feel stupid, it's that I don't really care. I mean I do, but not as much as maybe I should. And, yes, I feel kind of stupid. Probably because I just can't make myself sound intelligent at all.

Getting a Ph.D. does not make me feel smarter.

I Don't Really Care for Football...

2008-09-20T22:31:00.001-04:00

...but I love me some Manning Brothers. This commercial is pretty great.

"It's on like Donkey Kong"

This Friday, I am NOT Going to Campus

2008-09-19T13:59:00.002-04:00

But I do have 27 papers to grade. And I have to get my haircut, and take my bike to get fixed, and pick up green chile to send to my dad.

I submitted my first paper to a conference today. It's pretty exciting. It makes up for a day like yesterday when I wanted to run away from home.

The desert is warming back up. It's been cooler this week.

I hope you all have a good weekend.

Full Disclosure

2008-09-17T00:17:00.000-04:00

I am a total smoker again.

Post Burrito Reflection

2008-09-13T18:57:00.002-04:00

I have been studying blogs in my multimedia class. It's really fascinating, but it has me thinking about this blog and I decided to do it so willy-nilly. I didn't think of purpose and goals and audience. Ok, I did think about audience; I thought of all of you, my faithful readers. I mean, mine is mostly a public journal, a good way to keep in touch with friends. But I try to inform you of weird or interesting things I find. So what's the goal of my blog? I guess to keep a discussion going with all of you from a far. And if anyone else wants to add to the conversation, then so be it.

Graduate school makes me think constantly. It is a blessing and a curse.

Last night I went to an "Ever Clear and Game Night." And that means I drank Ever Clear Punch and played games. And drank beer. And smoked way too many cigarettes. And stayed out until 4 am. Sometimes I feel like I moved back to Las Cruces and stepped right back into my old life. Except now I am 30 and my liver doesn't bounce back like it used to.

Hope everyone is having a great weekend.

Tuesday Tidbits

2008-09-09T10:56:00.002-04:00

Has anyone else noticed that looks as though Sarah Palin is running for President and John McCain is staying in the background looking as though he is running for Vice-President?

It's finally starting to cool down a little in the desert. It's in the high 80's.

And I've discovered a good diet. It includes eating all the Mexican food and drinking all the beer you want. First, you join a PhD program, somewhere hot. Then you get completely stressed out over whether you're good in enough to be in a PhD program and if they think you aren't smart enough and that they made a huge mistake asking you to come. I'm not going to lie, you do have to exercise every day, but after the days you have, you'll want to get rid of some energy. And voila, you'll lose 10 lbs. in a month.

Oh, I've got another blog on this account. It's for my multimedia class. If you click on my profile you should be able to find it. All you get from it is that I don't really know what I'm talking about.

I Had a Completely Unproductive Saturday, But I Did See This

2008-09-07T00:49:00.003-04:00

Yeah, I didn't do shit today. Which means, I have a ton of shit to do tomorrow.

But courtesy of Johndan Johnson Eiola, (which Murph turned me onto) is why English is dumb

Keep watching to the end of the end note.

Hope you all are having a great weekend and that you are all as unproductive as I am.

Happy Birthday Harry Potter

2008-09-04T16:10:00.002-04:00

Ten years ago today, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone was released. Hard to believe that it was only 10 years ago.

So pull out your copy and give it a squeeze. Could you imagine a world without Harry Potter?

Duck Races

2008-09-01T23:34:00.007-04:00

Instead of the Duck Races, today I went to a wine festival. And strangely, I didn't buy any wine. I just tasted, tasted, tasted. I thought I was a tad too tipsy to get any work done after, but I almost got this burst of energy. It's actually slightly annoying.

Anyhoo, I thought I would post a few pics of my and my duck, whom I named Jiminy Crickets. Enjoy!

Sunday in the Desert

2008-08-31T11:38:00.002-04:00

Well folks, it's 9:30 am here in Las Cruces, NM and it is gray and wet outside. It's only around 68 degrees.

It's weird.

Yesterday I went to the farmers market (where, in addition to fruits, vegetables and a loaf of green chile bread, I got a plant...the first vegetation in my apartment), had a flipping awesome brunch, and got a lot of reading done. Today I have to apply that reading to actual work, but that's cool, I should be able to do that.

I think I have some ideas about the kind of research I want to do. It has to do with the green movement and either looking at online communities working in the movement (like Tree Hugger or Ideal Bite) or looking at personal narrative and how it is taking the science and creating more accessible ways to become more environmentally friendly (see, "Living with Ed," Doug Fine, etc.) And of course, because I am who I am, anything I look at will be pop culture in nature. But of course, I've only been in school for a little over a week, so this all may change. But I like thinking.

It's been an oddly productive weekend.

A Photo Essay

2008-08-27T12:28:00.008-04:00

Here's my bathtub. Doesn't it look fancy?

Here is the first meal I made in my kitchen. It's some pasta and spinach...and it was ok. I realize I cook with a lot of pasta and I think I am going to cut back on that.

I am not going to cut back on the breakfast burritos though. These fucking rock my mouth.

And finally, for Laura, my tornado tattoo.

Sunday Tidbits

2008-08-24T19:49:00.003-04:00

Today I went to a duck race. Further explanation you ask? I paid five dollars to hold a duck in my hands, gently toss it into some water and splash it as it swam to the end of the lane.

My duck talked a lot of shit, but couldn't live up to it. He lost. So I ate a a green chile corn dog, some butterfly fries, registered to vote in New Mexico and got a silk-screened tattoo of a tornado on my foot.

God, I LOVE being back in New Mexico.

In other news, I recently watched the mini-series, John Adams, which was about, John Adams and a portion of it obviously focused on his friendship with Thomas Jefferson. The mini-series failed to mention any of this though. Dirty politicking has been around a LOOOONG time.

Hope you all had a great weekend.

Question Of the Day

2008-08-22T13:51:00.002-04:00

Can someone develop dyslexia as they get older? I used to never get heartburn or indigestion, but about two years ago I started getting it more frequently. I've noticed lately that I have been inverting letters and numbers.

This isn't a good time for me to get dyslexia.

Sometimes I Don't Know About Me

2008-08-20T23:40:00.002-04:00

A lot has happened in the past month. I mean, a month ago, I was still a midwesterner, had a great-paying job, had worries like, will everything go ok when I move.

Well everything went well. The apartment was not a shit-hole (I swear pictures are coming soon), the people I will be spending the next three to four years don't seem so bad, Mexican food is still delicious.

But now the real work begins and I am sooooo nervous about being a student again. I want to do well, but insecurities are rearing their ugly heads. It's probably just the night-before-the-first-day jitters. Maybe it's my allergies that is making me cough and my throat hurt.

I'm tired. Everyone wish me luck on my first semester.

Oh and I'm Meg. I've decided to go ahead and own myself.

Bummed the F Out

2008-08-19T11:16:00.002-04:00

I am sure by now you have all heard this. I was so, so looking forward to seeing the new Harry Potter movie THIS fall. It seems so unfair that I have to wait until NEXT summer. In the mean time, you read this for an interesting look at the making of the movie.

In other news, I am officially done with any and all orientation. Last night I got drunk with a couple of guys that are other first years. That has a story too, but maybe on a different day.

I Usually Just Think, Wow That Was Awesome.

2008-08-16T10:12:00.003-04:00

I found this on Post Secret a couple of weeks ago.

TA Camp

2008-08-12T14:25:00.003-04:00

I've spent a day and a half out of 5 learning about my new grad student duties and like everything, it has it's pros and it's cons.

Cons (Let's get the bad stuff out of the way):

It's slightly more work in some areas - I have to do two office hours, it's a four credit class with one hour being completely online, and I have to work 4 hours a week in the Writer's Lab.

There is no 112 equivalent. We teach basic writing, argument and research in one semester. So I have a lot to prepare for my first semester out. Next semester though, I won't have to prepare a whole new class already. So this actually borders between pros and cons.

I think I still have to grade rough drafts.

I don't get a whole office, I get a cubicle (although I knew that BGSU was good in that regards and a lot of grad programs don't give you that luxury). I haven't actually seen it yet, so I will describe more later.

Pros:

No portfolio system; what I say goes.

Speaking of which, I get to grade the mothereffers.

It's less rigid, which at first scared me, but they also give you enough information that you aren't going completely off the cuff.

They don't stress MLA, just good source documentation. While I find this slightly confusing, at least it gets rid of MLA Nazi's, which I guess with no portfolio systems, doesn't matter. I just hate MLA Nazi's.

That's all I've got after a day and a half. The people seem nice so far.

When I am not doing HOMEWORK in the evening, I am watching Lost season 2 online.

Oh, and I must've misplaced all my teaching exercises I used. Could some of my awesome people out there send me a few of their favorites? Thanks.

Wait, So Does Dracula Still Exist?

2008-08-10T10:23:00.000-04:00

38 Die of Vampire Bat Attacks

My Life in Boxes Part II

2008-08-08T21:24:00.006-04:00

My place currently looks a little better than this, but not by much. I realized I HATE unpacking. I go through one box and think, I really don't want to unpack any more. So I don't. I like unpacking boxes with things I don't have to do anything with. In one box I found the box my computer came in. I just put that in the closet and done.

Anyhoo, here are pictures of the boxes. The first picture is obviously my beloved Butter. The second is the second bedroom and the third are boxes leading into my kitchen.

I promise to post pictures of the final results. But I can't promise it soon.

Have a good weekend ya'll.

New Mexico Update

2008-08-07T01:57:00.001-04:00

Been in Las Cruces for a little over day.

Furniture arrives tomorrow!

Pictures to soon follow!

Harry Potter Fever Begins Again

2008-07-30T08:41:00.001-04:00

Looks dark and awesome. I can't wait.

PS. This is my 400th post.