tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36115965939589239492024-03-13T03:02:10.566-07:00Running Down A Dream...Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger44125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3611596593958923949.post-58260524566547575962011-01-26T17:23:00.000-08:002011-01-26T17:26:50.958-08:00A New Start...Starting next Tuesday, I am embarking on a somewhat completely new career, in a new city, with new responsibilities, and LOTS of new people to meet and work with. I am nervous, excited, anxious, and...(after I finish packing up my apartment) ready!<br /><br />Stay tuned...Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3611596593958923949.post-64563991243983881362010-06-14T15:13:00.000-07:002010-06-14T15:24:08.962-07:00Back to blogging...Once again, something has occurred in my personal life (ahem, it's personal!) to inspire me to work on this blog again. Since I last wrote, a few things have changed, but much is the same:<br /><br />Changes:<br /><ul><li>Practically graduated with my Masters degree in Political Science. I walked at the May Commencement ceremony and, after completing 2 more hours of independent study and my comprehensive exams next month, I'll officially be finished!</li><li>I'm playing softball this summer and returning to the community band. While I'm really enjoying both activities, they take up three nights a week (band rehearsal, softball practice, band concert) and almost every Sunday (games) of my summer. I am glad to have things to keep me busy, but just when I thought I'd have more time after classes were over...</li></ul>Part of why I started this blog initially was to keep myself accountable for running and working out. Since it began I am still trying to run regularly. Before softball started I had fired up the old Couch to 5K plan again. However, between doing some traveling and a softball hit to my left knee (resulting in a GIANT bruise), I haven't been as faithful. I am planning to start back this week (honest!).<br /><br />I am also really interested in cooking, trying new recipes, and learning how to eat healthier. I hope to post some new dishes and old favorites here for your perusal. Tonight's menu includes an old favorite of steak, baked potato, and corn. Probably going to wash it down with a Leinenkugel's Sunset Wheat or Honey Weiss for good measure. :)<br /><br />Thanks for reading and stay tuned!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3611596593958923949.post-38984283161302089762009-11-03T13:50:00.001-08:002009-11-03T13:52:58.198-08:00No Excuse NovemberFor a few months now I've been posting my minimal workouts on a site called <a href="http://www.dailymile.com/people/AliMo250#ref=tophd">Daily Mile</a>. It's a nice online way to keep track of what you're doing, receive motivation, motivate others, and just generally share your goals with a community.<br /><br />Feel free to join and keep track of my progress as well as track your own with your goals.<br /><br />Until then, yesterday began what a friend of mine called "no excuse November." (Much better than those lame "no shave November" or any other weird month-long boycotts.) So, I worked out last night, will go again tonight after band practice and hopefully keep up some sort of activity each day for the rest of the month. Who knows, it might become a habit!!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3611596593958923949.post-32861188591224303632009-11-03T13:47:00.000-08:002009-11-03T13:50:06.654-08:00I'm baaaaaack!!!!OK kids, I'm back. Yay. Seriously though, as I was placing the New Year's and Chrismas holidays on my Outlook calendar today, I got to thinking about resolutions already. Yes, already.<br /><br />So, in order to get a head start on those resolutions, I resolve to not again take three weeks off from the gym. I went last night and rode about 10 miles on the bike and did some chest/shoulders lifting. All I have to say is "ouch." It's a good pain, but pain nonetheless.<br /><br />Stay tuned for more progress!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3611596593958923949.post-44807294018777513002009-04-29T09:11:00.001-07:002009-04-29T09:11:03.286-07:00P020109PS-0339<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whitehouse/3484819402/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3624/3484819402_ce939bc65f_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whitehouse/3484819402/">P020109PS-0339</a> <br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/whitehouse/">The Official White House Photostream</a></span><br clear="all" /><p>So cool!!</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3611596593958923949.post-81866422761422074422009-03-04T20:26:00.000-08:002009-03-04T20:32:57.228-08:00Motivation...is seriously lacking. I don't know why either. Somehow, for more than a week now, I've been in a slump. Despite the fact that <a href="http://zakattack1.blogspot.com/">The Librarian Diaries</a> and I have been talking about seriously doing the half-marathon in St. Louis next month (almost literally), I haven't been to the gym in more than a week now. Nothing, nada, zilch.<br /><br />I think at first it began has simply having too much going on in the evenings: Panther Service Day meetings, class, band rehearsal, homework, basketball games, etc. Then, after spending the weekend in Chicago and Decatur, my knees hurt. Nothing that bothers me during the day or anything, but it's definitely been an excuse.<br /><br />Tonight, I had intentions of going, but as per usual lately, I was distracted. I got out of class early and decided to be a giant nerd and go check out Student Government instead. (There was talk of a feisty meeting in the DEN.) However, when I arrived, they had just adjourned and I spent the next half hour talking to my good friend and the org.'s adviser instead.<br /><br />Tomorrow though, it's gonna happen...it has to. I'm running a 3K next weekend for St. Pat's Day weekend. It's only a little over a mile and a half, but since I haven't done anything active since last Monday, I know I'll be rusty. I'm sure I can run a mile and a half, but considering the half is a month away, I have some work to do to catch up.<br /><br />Wish me luck!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3611596593958923949.post-69358834332726733152009-02-16T21:05:00.000-08:002009-02-16T21:07:09.176-08:00Pet Peeves...when people refer to the state legislature as the "state congress" or "congress" in general.<br /><br />1. There is only one Congress and it's the U.S. House of Representatives<br />2. State legislative bodies are referred to as Legislatures!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3611596593958923949.post-20018399698417367002009-01-27T20:42:00.000-08:002009-01-27T21:05:17.554-08:00Grad School AnnoyancesSomeone asked me recently how I felt about some of the other grad students in my program. Simple, I don't know, I don't hang out with them. A few I have classes with this semester, I had class with last semester so there are some I enjoy, but for the vast majority, I really don't know.<br /><br />However, having almost three weeks of class under our belts now, I can safely make the following observations about grad school and my classmates:<br /><br /><ol><li>A guy in one of my classes has a rat tail. I'm not even kidding. I hadn't noticed it the first week of class, but as I walked behind him (still seated) this week, I saw this glorious, braided, approximately 2 ft. long, rat tail streaming down his back. WTF. Jordan Knight called from 1991 and wanted his hair back.<br /></li><li>We have a first-semester gunner. Now, I thought these people were reserved for conversations and things I've read about law school, but as we all know, these are the same people known as "suck ups, teacher's pets," or any other name for someone who talks too much, asks too many questions, tries to one-up the professor (seriously, why?), or tries to undermine or annoyingly challenge the views of anyone else in the class. Unfortunately for this guy, he probably made a lot of enemies when, in talking about how we were politically socialized, told everyone he used to listen to 6 hrs. a day of talk radio. Yes, I know what you're thinking, and yes, I mean Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity, and probably a variety of other idiots. Good for you buddy.<br /></li><li>I have no use for the grad lab, mostly because I'm working during the hours it is open. If I need to use SPSS, I'll just go to the library or the 24-hr lab, thankyouverymuch. Also for the reasons listed above, I'd rather not spend any more time in the departmental areas than I have to. I do enjoy seeing my profs, especially those I had in undergrad and don't see often now, but working full-time doesn't exactly allow me hours to kill in the grad lab during the day. However, on one of my syllabuses (syllabi?), it states that additional reading is available on e-reserve and in the grad lab. Apparently this is not entirely true however because one of this week's readings is ONLY available in the grad lab...which I never visit. So, tomorrow morning - because I am a champion procrastinator - I will be there, copying whatever it is I should have read tonight and frantically coming up with a paragraph to turn in at class time in the evening. </li></ol>In conclusion, why don't you help me out and just pray for classes (including night classes!) to get canceled tomorrow for this crazy snowstorm! Thanks!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3611596593958923949.post-31309075841835677342009-01-24T12:42:00.001-08:002009-01-24T12:55:06.056-08:00Getting after it...In order to make my 5K and half-marathon goal this year, I hopped back on the bandwagon with my "Couch to 5K" buddy, Robert Ulrey. This dude took the Cool Runnings "Couch to 5K" program and set it to podcasts. This way you don't have to time yourself, figure out when to run, walk, etc. He tells you when to do each and sets it to some motivating techno music.<br /><br />Speaking of the music, I chuckle at it now, but it was extremely motivating about a year ago when I started using this plan. It was a bit of a rough patch and the song lyrics just kept reminding me that despite what had happened, I was stronger. Listening to it now reminds me of that and just makes me laugh a little to myself when I think about those times. 180 degrees.<br /><br />Anyway, for some reason, although I got through the week 1 program with no trouble earlier this week, I just couldn't finish the last running interval. I felt lightheaded so I just slowed down and walked for a bit longer instead. My plan this semester is to run Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday. I have an evening class on Wednesday so instead of waiting until the weekend for a rest day, I'm going to use Wednesday as such.<br /><br />For anyone who is interested, here's the link for the <a href="http://www.ullreys.com/robert/Podcasts/">podcasts</a> and the <a href="http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml">program</a> itself. If you're already pretty athletic or doing some running, here's another good beginner <a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/images/cma/beginner5k_table.jpg">5K training program</a>.<br /><br />Happy weekend peeps!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3611596593958923949.post-70247493852112177682009-01-20T07:12:00.001-08:002009-01-20T07:16:54.887-08:00My Inauguration Day PlaylistGet pumped people!!<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Chicago</span> - Sufjan Stevens<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Beautiful Day</span> - U2<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Signed, Sealed, Delivered, I'm Yours</span> - Stevie Wonder<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Waiting on the World to Change</span> - John Mayer<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Change is Gonna Come</span> - Gavin DeGraw<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Pride (In the Name of Love)</span> - U2<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Changes</span> - David Bowie<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">The Rising</span> - Bruce Springsteen<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">It's a Great Day to be Alive</span> - Travis Tritt<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">What a Wonderful World</span> - Louis Armstrong<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">America the Beautiful</span> - Ray Charles<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Somewhere Over the Rainbow</span> - Israel Kamakawiwo'ole<br /><br />YES WE CANUnknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3611596593958923949.post-33542905902789390902009-01-09T18:58:00.000-08:002009-01-22T12:53:09.375-08:002009 Resolutions...or, things I'd like to do before I'm 30.**So I realize today is January 9th. I don't care. I put a lot of thought into these resolutions/goals and am just now posting them.<br /><br />1. Take more risks - at work, with my personal life, fashion, etc. Not the "get yourself fired" kind of risks or anything, but try to push the envelope and encourage progressive thinking at work as much as I can. And, life is too short not to take risks that could result in happiness!<br /><br />2. WORK OUT! I've been on quite a bit of a slump since I ran my 5K in September. Between the crunch of midterms through the end of the semester and the typical holiday sloth, it's time to kick it back into gear. I'd like to run a half marathon sometime before the end of the year and generally, be in as good, if not better shape than I was in September.<br />(*As of this posting I've been to the gym everyday this week.)<br />2(a). If you have any ideas, suggestions, races to run, etc. please pass those along. :)<br /><br />3. Curb procrastination! Do homework and readings when assigned instead of at the last minute. Stay ahead of the game if possible.<br /><br />3. Keep track of finances using (shameless plug) <a href="http://www.mint.com/">mint. com</a>. So far, I love it.<br />3(a). Pay off car payment. Should be done this year!!!<br />3(b). Start an IRA.<br /><br />4. Read the remaining unread books on my shelves and read 15 new, preferably some classics.<br /><br />5. Say NO! Sometimes you just have to prioritize and say no to some things.<br /><br />6. Learn to play guitar and/or piano. (Not sure when or how I will accomplish this just yet. Summer project?)<br /><br />7. Take my lunch to work. Or, don't waste gas driving less than a mile home for lunch. It's nice to get out of the office during the day, but it's just as easy to make something ahead of time and take time to read the newspaper at the office instead. I will miss my guilty pleasure of "Days of Our Lives" though. :(<br /><br />8. Visit friends more often. Travel more.<br /><br />9. Entertain friends new and old at home.<br /><br />10. Get my apartment more organized, purge things/clothes/items/paperwork I don't need, and simplify.<br /><br />Need some fun ideas for your own resolutions/future plans? Check out this fun list:<br /><a href="http://www.womenshealthmag.com/life/new-year-resolutions-you-can-keep?cat=11678">http://www.womenshealthmag.com/life/new-year-resolutions-you-can-keep?cat=11678</a><br /><br />**EDIT: 11. Buckle down, sign up for the June 2009 LSAT, study, and get the darn thing over with so part II of my 5-year plan can begin.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3611596593958923949.post-53748375188671990822009-01-06T21:09:00.000-08:002009-01-06T21:17:22.319-08:00NY Resolutions......aaaand I'm still working on them. Can't get motivated to finish. Is that a bad omen?<br /><br />On the up side, I've worked out every day this week (I know, it's only Tuesday, but I'm on a roll people), I'm going shopping (for a bridal shower gift), ice skating, and hanging out with a new friend this weekend!<br /><br />Here's to leaving 2008 behind and welcoming 2009!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3611596593958923949.post-61341803417442983902009-01-04T09:44:00.000-08:002009-01-05T12:59:08.157-08:002009 RacesSince I've set a goal of running a half-marathon before the end of the year, I've decided to track down a few races (5K) that I could use as motivation and training until then, and my options for half-marathons. So far, these are the options I find most intriguing:<br /><br />3/7/09 - Miller Park Stampede, Bloomington IL<br />3/14/09* - Run to LSB 3K, Decatur IL (beer at the end...<span style="font-weight: bold;">bonus</span>)<br />(*Usually on St. Patrick's Day weekend, kicking off the Decatur parade.)<br />3/28/09 - Penguin in the Park, Decatur IL<br />4/11/09 - Illinois Marathon (and 5K), Champaign IL<br />4/11/09 - Lake Sara Dam Run, Effingham IL<br /><br />5/2/09 - Indianapolis 500 Mini-Marathon, Indianapolis IN<br />9/13/09 - Chicago Half Marathon, Chicago IL<br /><br /><br />So, who is coming with me??Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3611596593958923949.post-4432176050133857682009-01-03T18:20:00.000-08:002009-01-05T12:58:07.979-08:00A long December, and there's reason to believe, maybe this year will be better than the last...<span style="font-weight: bold;">2008 - The Good</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">Spent NYE 2007 with a group of good friends from home, dressed as a pirate.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;font-size:100%;" >I had the pleasure and honor of attending the weddings of: Katie (Strejc) & Sean Fischer, Aimee (Showers) & Shine Lin, and Caleb & Kim Judy</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">Spent a wonderful weekend visiting awesome college friends in Findlay, OH. The bad: puked on twice by Baby Alex.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">Shared good times with friends in Decatur.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">Learned to trust my instincts, see red flags, listen to and trust my friends' and family's instincts (even after the fact), and really figure out what </span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: georgia;">I</span><span style="font-family: georgia;"> want and deserve.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">Lake of the Ozarks - almost dying in a potentially capsized pontoon boat, but meeting new friends :)</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">Visited old college friends in Chicago while taking an LSAT prep course. (Still trying to decide when to </span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: georgia;">actually</span><span style="font-family: georgia;"> take the exam.)</span><br /><br />Spent a weekend in Tennessee with college friends, went whitewater rafting and learned of Baby Minton!<br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">Deciding to return to grad school and getting an A and a B!!!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">Ran my first EVER 5K!!!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">Helped to plan and host an extremely successful 10-year high school reunion</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">Jamby Crawl 2008 - 80's Hollywood (Flashdance baby!)</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">Home for the holidays, always good.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">Celebrating the impending arrival of Baby Jacob and learning about Peanut Weber-Johnson!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">Spending a fun NYE 2008 with pals in Memphis, TN!</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: georgia;">2008 - The Bad & Ugly</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">Continued family drama over the death of Great-G'ma</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">The break-up and, I'm not too ashamed to admit it, lingering hostility and a little pleasant vindication for myself.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">My friends' family health issues</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">Co-workers' family health issues/deaths</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">All in all, I give 2008 a B-. It could have been worse I suppose and I am truly thankful for the many, many, many blessings I do have. Not the least of which have been my friends near and far that have listened to me cry, complain, speak in triplicate when inebriated, put up with whatever I throw down. I hope I've done the same for them and will continue to work toward that end in the coming year.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">Speaking of...resolutions coming shortly.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3611596593958923949.post-61443411462881594982008-12-29T21:03:00.000-08:002009-01-03T18:38:53.047-08:002008 in Review<p><strong><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:85%;">I've been thinking of a "Year In Review" type post for the last few days and just happened upon this meme instead. Stay tuned for a similar post though after the New Year! </span></span><br /></strong></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>1. What did you do in 2008 that you’d never done before?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">Rolled down a hill in a plastic bubble (Zorb)<br /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">Traveled to Arizona, California, and North Carolina for work.<br /></span></p><div class="entry-more"> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>2. Did you keep your new years’ resolutions, and will you make more for next year?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">I'll have to find them, but I think I did pretty well considering an interesting (shiteous) first third of the year.<br /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>3. Did anyone close to you give birth?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">Sarah A., Sarah B. and learned Lindsay M. was pregnant!<br /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>4. Did anyone close to you die?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">Not this year.<br /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>5. What countries did you visit?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">None</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>6. What would you like to have in 2009 that you lacked in 2008?</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;font-size:85%;" >More time to spend with friends and family. </span><br /></strong></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>7. What date from 2008 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">Honestly? For better or worse, March 10.<br /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">Maintaining my sanity while working full-time and attending graduate school part-time. </span></p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>9. What was your biggest failure?</strong></span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />I've come full circle, but I'd say trying, and usually failing, to think positively in painful situations. Additionally, not thinking really hateful things about some people who crossed my path this year. </span><br /><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>10. Did you suffer illness or injury?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">Nothing more than a cold or two. Oooh, and some hangovers. Yikes.<br /></span> </p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>11. What was the best thing you bought?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">My new laptop in February!</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>12. Whose behavior merited celebration?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">Tough one! I'm sure I couldn't narrow it down to just one.<br /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">Fortunately, it occurred early in the year (thus not spoiling the rest of my time!) and anyone who knows me, knows who I am referring to.<br /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>14. Where did most of your money go?</strong><br /><strong></strong><br />Rent, car payment, then credit card debt.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">New Kids on the freakin' Block!<br /><strong><br />16. What song will always remind you of 2008?</strong></span></p><span style="font-size:85%;">"Wanted Dead or Alive" - Tennessee trip<br /><br />"I'm Yours" - just for fun<br /><br />"Stupid Boy" - on repeat<br /><br />"So What" - also on repeat</span><br /><br /><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>17. Compared to this time last year, are you:</strong></span></p> <ul><li><span style="font-size:85%;">i. happier or sadder? Happier!<br /></span> </li><li><span style="font-size:85%;">ii. thinner or fatter? Thinner!<br /></span> </li><li><span style="font-size:85%;">iii. richer or poorer? Richer!<br /></span> </li></ul> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>18. What do you wish you’d done more of?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">Work out, practice my trumpet, study for the LSAT (still have a while though), play with Hunter<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>19. What do you wish you’d done less of?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">Surfing the internet, doubting/blaming myself, being angry<br /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>20. How will you be spending New Year’s?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">Celebrating on Beale St. in Memphis with Kathy, Lydia, Mike, Ben and Chuck<br /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>22. Did you fall in love in 2008?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">Delusion might better describe it. </span><br /></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>23. How many one-night stands?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">Hmm...hey! I'm a good girl!<br /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>24. What was your favorite TV program?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">The Office<br /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>25. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">I'm stealing this comment: "I resent certain peoples' behaviors and I make conscious choices to minimize my exposure to these behaviors...I just hate peoples' choices at times." I tend to agree, but I kinda hated on some folks. Meh.<br /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>26. What was the best book you read?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">Before I had to read a pile of journals for class, I read "Dreams of My Father" by the President-Elect. Starting on the "Audacity of Hope" now. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>27. What was your greatest musical (re)discovery?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">Thunder Road - The Boss<br /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>28. What did you want and get?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">A speaker dock for my glorious iPod</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>29. What did you want and not get?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">Nothing much really. Pretty darn satisfied.<br /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>30. What was your favorite film of this year?<br /></strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">I'm going with "The Dark Knight" or "Juno."<br /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>31. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">Hm, not much really. I turned 28.<br /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>32. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">Studying for, taking and rocking the LSAT. February (or June) or bust!<br /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>33. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2008?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">Work clothes or jeans and t-shirts.<br /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>34. What kept you sane?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">Facebook</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>35. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">David Gergen<br /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>36. What political issue stirred you the most?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">Seriously? This is a question? The election of President-Elect Barack Obama. DUH!<br /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>37. Who did you miss?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">Family and friends I don't get to see often. Decatur friends, Weller friends, Southern Illinois friends.<br /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>38. Who was the best new person you met?</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">I can't narrow that down!!<br /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>39. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2008:</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;">To not reflect too much on the past, but learn from it.<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;">Forgive (sort of), but don't forget.<br /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>40. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year:</strong></span></p><span style="font-size:85%;">"I get by with a little help from my friends"</span><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3611596593958923949.post-53124649427831571412008-12-23T13:43:00.000-08:002008-12-23T13:54:12.474-08:00Home for the Holidays!After a trip that normally takes two hours took almost four, I made it home. The St. Louis area is pretty much covered in ice and is super slick. I just heard on the TV that Interstate 70 has been shut down (where, I don't know) for a crash, so thank goodness I left when I did.<br /><br />Here's what I'm excited about for week and coming weekend:<br /><ul><li>One "A" and one "B" in my graduate classes this semester! Not entirely surprised about the B, but pleasantly surprised about the A!</li><li>Going to see some old friends at <a href="http://www.fasteddiesbonair.com/?mpf=frame">Fast Eddie's</a></li><li>Christmas Eve at my Aunt and Uncle's and <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Bagna-Calda-Italian-Garlic-Anchovy-Sardine-Appetizer/Detail.aspx">bagnacalda</a></li><li>Christmas lights, luminaries, and Midnight Mass</li><li>After-Christmas shopping</li><li>Seeing the college gang for the baby shower on Sunday<br /></li><li>Family, friends and FOOD!<br /></li></ul>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3611596593958923949.post-75664192066818002442008-12-02T22:30:00.001-08:002008-12-02T22:30:46.876-08:00No Edgar<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mitchsurprenant/2036608760/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2324/2036608760_67241eddfb_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mitchsurprenant/2036608760/">No Edgar</a> <br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/mitchsurprenant/">mitch.surprenant</a></span><br clear="all" /><p>Wow! <br />A. That's a really old sticker<br /><br />B. It's paid for by my former "seasonal" employers, classic.<br /><br />C. It was found in the MLK Jr. University Union at EIU where Jim Edgar is pretty much still regarded as a God<br /><br />Hilarious.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3611596593958923949.post-84862184206829727532008-10-23T19:42:00.000-07:002008-10-23T19:55:22.535-07:00Negative Ads?In this time of campaign ads, both positive and negative, it has me thinking about actual product advertising. Just in the last week, I've noticed two product ads that are seemingly positive, but in reality are essentially bashing their competitors, albeit a bit more subtly than black and white photos, newspaper headlines, quotes, and using that creepy dude's voice. However, isn't there a twinge of negativity? You decide...<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fVyTnTdijog"><br />Apple Ad</a><br /><br />There's also a Claritin ad (that I can't find on YouTube) that keeps talking about Zyrtec and how it "may cause drowsiness." From what I recall the announcer even says "there's one thing Zyrtec won't tell you." Sounds an awful lot like political commercials to me.<br /><br />Thoughts?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3611596593958923949.post-86665134941249432182008-10-12T10:35:00.000-07:002008-10-12T10:44:24.114-07:00Minutes just ticking away...For the last few weeks it's felt as though the minutes and days are just ticking away without much recollection or productivity. Some are better than others, but overall, it's sort of felt like a daze.<br /><br />I haven't worked out much mostly for lack of motivation - no 5K looming on my calendar anymore probably doesn't help - and lack of time. It seems free moments outside of work or class are spent procrastinating on homework or actually doing it.<br /><br />Classes are going well I guess. Research methods is what it is...a bunch of stats and math I don't remember from 6 years ago and need to reteach myself. This weekend I'm working on a paper assignment this weekend for my Subnational Gov. class. Basically, we're suppose to synthesize about 12 journal articles into about 6 factors necessary to understand modern politics. It's weird though because I feel like 6 years ago I could have sat down in an evening or two and cranked out a paper with no problem, but now it feels as overwhelming as the idea of writing a thesis. I'm probably just over-thinking it.<br /><br />I think today might be a good day to pick up running again...stress relief!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3611596593958923949.post-90868313054615874002008-09-22T07:20:00.000-07:002008-09-22T07:21:36.196-07:00Results<span style="font-size:100%;">Race results are posted <a href="http://timingiseverything.com/Races/2008/DSC08.HTM">here</a> today.<br /><br />My results:<br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">85th of 153 women with a time of 33:42 and a 10:51 pace</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">8th in my age group (25-29)</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">190th of 275 overall</span><br /><br />Not too shabby. </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3611596593958923949.post-43982789708112031002008-09-21T12:57:00.000-07:002008-09-21T13:40:39.305-07:00RACE DAY!!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwbhpo9Edorzxc1qC8ciTEEQEf-pyTE2CC13UkV1si-4dZ98vwOFjEm7F8O11Ft8WIgfu2_n03R3Vvg7iqH03V6TVlycudCM2DxOooStoDZVCoOF7DWG_hFt7T7TauPJ8WaK52hNlb5LNt/s1600-h/Shoreline+Classic+001.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwbhpo9Edorzxc1qC8ciTEEQEf-pyTE2CC13UkV1si-4dZ98vwOFjEm7F8O11Ft8WIgfu2_n03R3Vvg7iqH03V6TVlycudCM2DxOooStoDZVCoOF7DWG_hFt7T7TauPJ8WaK52hNlb5LNt/s320/Shoreline+Classic+001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248577035828228242" border="0" /></a><br />Ah, it's all over. It was definitely...an experience. :) I did get a sweet long-sleeved t-shirt though:<br /><br /><br />Let's begin with the weekend as a whole. I went out with some grad students from my program Friday night, stayed out too late, had awkward flashbacks of my undergrad career, and woke up about 7 hours later. I made my way to Decatur Saturday afternoon to meet up with my friend Tracy (and running partner for today) before going to Bloomington to watch the EIU Panthers play the ISU Redbirds in football.<br /><br /><a href="http://jg-tc.com/articles/2008/09/21/sports/doc48d5b63a76638186078425.txt">EIU WINS!!!</a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbL-YpRrKQu-RsPGDAYQuWCz_ZK7sKR4L_OEcM8RqPIry4hUc90nFmID0FpqwMf8zXipfEoz8wU5O69kUS8lKFTKJ_H10TWuKWkqymN5AS2z-DuUxRXHqVpyp9Xh8OLUk62FKYR0UuYq9b/s1600-h/eiuisu.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbL-YpRrKQu-RsPGDAYQuWCz_ZK7sKR4L_OEcM8RqPIry4hUc90nFmID0FpqwMf8zXipfEoz8wU5O69kUS8lKFTKJ_H10TWuKWkqymN5AS2z-DuUxRXHqVpyp9Xh8OLUk62FKYR0UuYq9b/s320/eiuisu.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248568865752575138" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Sack that guy!!!<br /><br />After jumping around all night, screaming, yelling and clapping I thought for sure I'd ruined myself for my first ever 5K run the next morning. But, we got to bed "early" (10:30ish) and got up at 6:30am to get ready and get to the race so Tracy could get registered. Plenty of time. We walked to and from the car a couple of times, I did some stretching and before I knew it, we were off!<br /><br />The <a href="http://www.shorelineclassic.com/maps.php">course</a> starts at Nelson Park in Decatur and stretches along Lake Decatur. To start, you head up a gradual hill (past my old apartment), zig-zags around a few streets at the top of Lake Shore Dr. and then back down Lake Shore to the starting line. It was a beautiful morning and definitely not hot, in fact, a bit cool at 8am, but pretty humid. As I was running, it was hard to get my breath, but I tried to keep my gasps for air as regular as possible. After a while I felt like I sounded like I was on a freakin' respirator.<br /><br />I only walked a few steps during the entire race when we came upon our water stop. I'm coordinated, but not THAT coordinated. It felt good to drink something since my mouth was getting dry from gasping for air most of the time and it felt good to slow down, even if it was only for a minute or so.<br /><br />During the last half mile, I really felt like I couldn't go on, but somehow I did. Fortunately, Tracy and a friend of hers were just a few steps ahead and my friend Adam H. from college had caught up to me. Although I barely spoke during the race, it was nice to at least have people by your side, keeping you honest and motivated. When we finished, Adam was right next to me, but for fun, I found a few ounces of energy and kicked it up through the chute. Since I'm not a "serious" runner I wasn't wearing a watch and I really didn't pay attention to the clock except for the minutes...33. So, I'll have to wait until the results are posted on the website to find out my exact time.<br /><br />We grabbed some water, hit the bathroom, and then started up the hill to the pavilion where food and Powerade were waiting. The Powerade and a banana hit the spot before I felt like I wanted to eat a sandwich. We didn't stick around long enough for the awards, but received our medals and took off.<br /><br />Overall, it was a good experience. I would do it again, but not soon! When I do, I will be a lot more serious about running outside and sticking to a training program more religiously. Until then...I rewarded myself with a <a href="http://www.steaknshake.com/menu/melts.asp">Frisco Melt</a> from Steak 'n Shake on my way home from Decatur and I will be taking a nap shortly.<br /><br />Thanks for reading and thanks to my partners today!!!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3611596593958923949.post-27028087407434961742008-09-18T21:52:00.000-07:002008-09-18T21:58:53.364-07:00T-minus 2 daysThe race is on Sunday and I'm starting...wait, continuing, to be excited/nervous. I really haven't run since last Friday, but I've been at the rec center every day since on the bike. I've "ridden" every night anywhere between 35-60 minutes. I plan on running tomorrow or Saturday morning so I took it easy tonight and only did 30 minutes and did some work on the "guns." I think I'm back to my high school "buff arms" that I had after doing numerous push-ups in marching band.<br /><br />But, that's neither here nor there...although I haven't followed the plans I had to a T, I do feel like I will successfully complete this race on Sunday. I probably won't come in first, and I guarantee that if I'm last I will trip the person in front of me just before the finish line. Just kidding...sort of. But I will sprint past them and most likely collapse at the end to avoid being last if I have to.<br /><br />So I probably won't blog much between now and then, but I'll have a whole recap after Sunday!!! Wish me luck!!!<br /><br />Next project: Staying the workout course before next weekend's high school reunion.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3611596593958923949.post-74910496345296764762008-09-12T21:17:00.000-07:002008-09-12T21:26:47.928-07:00T-minus 8 daysFor Matt...<br /><br />8 days until the race<br /><br />Tonight I went to the Rec but was quickly distracted in the parking lot by the marching band rehearsal. Anyone that knows me knows I'm a total band nerd and don't care. I love it. Anyway, I watched for a while, and then decided a half hour was enough. I'll see the show tomorrow night at the EIU home opener.<br /><br />So, on to the Rec. I spent 32 minutes on the bike and did some leg exercises and a bunch of crunches. I have a feeling my ass (muscles) will be sore tomorrow...literally.<br /><br />According to plan I'm supposed to be running 3.5 miles the Saturday/Sunday the week before the race. However, I'm going to take another day off of running in order to further rest the shins. It's not as though I'm in excruciating pain or anything, but it's annoying that I start to feel it the minute my foot hits the pavement/treadmill.<br /><br />Besides that, EIU's 1st home football game is tomorrow night! Go Panthers!!!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3611596593958923949.post-14661357063411445162008-09-11T21:52:00.000-07:002008-09-11T22:05:01.967-07:00T-minus 9 days9 days until the race...<br /><br />I ran a little under 30 minutes tonight. I took a couple of walking breaks though because, again, my shins were bothering me. I tried a couple of stretches I saw <a href="http://runnersworld.com/">here</a>, but it still didn't keep my shins from hurting whenever I thudded my feet down on the treadmill. Maybe if I ran faster, I wouldn't feel like I was stomping along and rather gliding....ah, sounds lovely, but realistically I'm afraid I won't be able to sustain a faster speed (usually I've set the treadmill to about 5.4-5.5) and will get burnt out. Besides, from what I read about shin pain it's from doing too much too soon. The last thing I want to do is expedite that.<br /><br />Suggestions are welcome for exercises, stretches, whatever for shin stress. Write me at amormino@gmail.com or, since these updates show up there, Facebook me. Thanks!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3611596593958923949.post-7513289890557213062008-09-10T21:46:00.000-07:002008-09-10T21:51:37.099-07:00Days 15 & 16Although my shins were burning and I took a short walking break, I finished 2.5 miles last night!!!<br /><br />Tonight I did 30 minutes on the elliptical machine. Tomorrow another 20 on the treadmill!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1